UN Raises Alarm as Uganda Enforces Internet Shutdown Ahead of Crucial Elections
The United Nations has issued a strong warning after Ugandan authorities moved to shut down public internet access during the country’s election period, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from international human rights observers.
In a statement released on Wednesday, January 14, the UN Human Rights Office said it was “deeply troubled” by Uganda’s decision to restrict internet access and suspend the operations of several non-governmental organisations just days before voters head to the polls.
“Internet restrictions and suspension of 10 NGOs ahead of elections tomorrow are deeply worrying,” the UN said in a statement shared publicly.
The UN stressed that free access to information and open communication channels are essential to democratic processes, warning that restrictions imposed during elections risk undermining transparency and public trust.
“Open access to communication and information is key to free and genuine elections. All Ugandans must be able to take part in shaping their future and the future of their country,” the statement added.
Election Integrity Concerns Raised
The intervention by the UN comes amid heightened political tensions in Uganda, where elections have historically been accompanied by allegations of repression, restrictions on civil liberties, and security crackdowns.
Human rights groups have repeatedly warned that internet shutdowns during elections can limit independent reporting, restrict opposition campaigning, and prevent citizens from accessing real-time information about voting, results, and potential irregularities.
The UN’s concerns were compounded by the suspension of 10 non-governmental organisations, a move critics say could weaken election monitoring and civic engagement at a critical moment.
Uganda Explains Decision to Suspend Internet Services
Earlier on Wednesday, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) defended the temporary shutdown, saying it was implemented following security advice.
In its own statement, the UCC said it acted on a recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, instructing all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to suspend public internet access and selected mobile services during the election period.
“Following strong recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, the Uganda Communications Commission on Tuesday issued a directive to all licensed Mobile Network Operators and Internet Service Providers to temporarily suspend public internet access and selected mobile services during the election period,” the commission said.
According to the UCC, the decision was driven by concerns over misinformation, electoral manipulation, and the risk of violence.
“This measure was taken to mitigate the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, curb risks of electoral fraud, and prevent incitement to violence, all of which could undermine public order, national security and the integrity of the electoral process,” the statement added.
Essential Services Exempted
The UCC sought to reassure the public that the shutdown was not total, saying certain critical services were exempted to ensure essential operations continued.
“Services deemed essential were exempted to support critical systems and institutions necessary for maintaining normalcy and continuity in strategic areas of service delivery,” the commission said.
However, it acknowledged that non-essential internet-based services would remain unavailable for the duration of the suspension.
“Any internet-based services that are not life-saving or critical, and can reasonably be deferred, will regrettably remain suspended for this period,” the statement continued.
The UCC also said organisations that believe their services are essential but were not exempted could formally request a review.
“Institutions or service providers that believe their services are of a critical nature but have not been exempted may write to UCC for reconsideration by the Inter-Agency Security Committee,” the commission concluded.
Growing International Scrutiny
Uganda’s decision is likely to intensify international scrutiny of the election process, with rights groups and foreign observers closely monitoring developments.
Internet shutdowns during elections have become increasingly controversial across Africa, with critics arguing they disproportionately affect ordinary citizens while failing to address underlying security concerns.
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UN Raises Alarm as Uganda Enforces Internet Shutdown Ahead of Crucial Elections