KAMPALA, Uganda — The United Nations Human Rights Office has expressed deep concern over the suspension of public internet access and the shutdown of several civil society organisations in Uganda just before the country’s general election, warning that the restrictions threaten the integrity of the democratic process.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, January 14, the rights office described both the internet blackout and the suspension of 10 non-governmental organisations as “deeply worrying” developments that undermine fundamental freedoms and the ability of citizens to engage meaningfully in the electoral process.
“Internet restrictions and suspension of 10 NGOs ahead of elections tomorrow are deeply worrying,” the statement read, stressing that open access to information and communications is crucial for free, fair and credible elections.
“Open access to communication & information is key to free & genuine elections. All Ugandans must be able to take part in shaping their future and the future of their country,” the United Nations added.
The warning came amid heightened political tension and media suppression in the East African nation, where President Yoweri Museveni, in power for more than four decades, is seeking re-election against a backdrop of opposition arrests, election-day restrictions, and a near-total internet outage.
Earlier on Wednesday, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) provided its own explanation for the shutdown of public internet and selected mobile services, saying the move followed advice from the inter-agency security committee in the interest of national security.
In a separate statement, UCC said it had directed all licensed mobile network operators (MNOs) and internet service providers (ISPs) to suspend public internet access during the election period after strong recommendations from security agencies.
“Following strong recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) on Tuesday issued a directive to all licensed MNOs and ISPs to temporarily suspend public internet access and selected mobile services during the election period,” UCC said.
The regulator said the measure was taken to mitigate the spread of misinformation and disinformation, curb risks of electoral fraud, and prevent incitement to violence that could undermine public order and national security.
UCC stressed that not all services were affected and that essential services critical to normal government and institutional functions were exempted from the shutdown.
“Services deemed essential were exempted to support critical systems and institutions necessary for maintaining normalcy and continuity in strategic areas of service delivery,” the regulator said. “Any internet-based services that are not life-saving or critical, and can reasonably be deferred, will regrettably remain suspended for the duration of this period.”
UCC also noted that organisations that believe their services should qualify as essential can petition the commission for reconsideration through the inter-agency security committee.
The contrasting statements from the United Nations and Uganda’s communications regulator highlight the growing friction between state security arguments and international human rights norms regarding freedom of expression, access to information, and civic participation during elections.
Uganda’s shutdown comes days before voting in a highly contested election where opposition figures have accused the government of systematically suppressing dissent, restricting media freedoms, and weaponising state institutions to tilt the political playing field.
The internet restrictions and NGO suspensions have drawn criticism from rights groups who argue that cutting access to communication platforms at a sensitive political moment not only limits citizens’ voices but also hampers transparency in the electoral process.
As Uganda proceeds with its polls, observers will be watching closely to see whether the restrictions endure and what impact they ultimately have on turnout, civic engagement, and the country’s democratic reputation.
