KAMPALA, Uganda — Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has announced the lifting of all social media restrictions, signalling a return to normal digital activity following the country’s election period.
In a statement posted on his official X account on Monday, Kainerugaba said the decision marked the end of extraordinary controls imposed during the electoral season, thanking Ugandans for their cooperation and restraint.
“We are releasing all social media today. I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and co-operation throughout this electoral season,” Kainerugaba said. “You are truly the greatest people on earth and you give us all the courage to serve. God bless you all.”
The announcement comes after weeks of heightened political activity, during which access to social media platforms was restricted amid security concerns.
The move to restore access is likely to be welcomed by civil society groups, media organisations, businesses, and digital rights advocates, many of whom have long criticised election-period internet controls as unconstitutional and harmful to economic activity.
Digital platforms play a central role in Uganda’s political mobilisation, commerce, and media distribution.
Previous shutdowns have disrupted online businesses, financial services, and news dissemination, with industry groups estimating millions of dollars in economic losses during prolonged restrictions.
