The Uganda Communication Commission has announced the temporary suspension of internet access and selected mobile services during the election period.
In a press statement issued by the UCC, it directed all licensed Mobile Network Operators and internet Service Providers to implement a temporary suspension of public internet access, the sale and registration of new SIM cards, and outbound data roaming services to one area countries.
UCC defended its decision as an effort to mitigate the rapid spread of online misinformation and disinformation, electoral fraud, and related risks, and to prevent incitement of violence that could affect public confidence and national security during the election period.
The suspension is effective 13th January 2026, at 1800hrs and will remain in force until a restoration notice is issued by the UCC.
Public internet traffic includes, but is not limited to, social media platforms, web browsing, video streaming, personal email services, and messaging applications. The suspension applies to Mobile Broadband (Cellular), Fibre Optic, Leased Lines, Fixed Wireless Access, Microwave Radio Links, and Satellite Internet Services.
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However, a few entities have been exempted from the suspension, among these include;
1. Healthcare systems at National Referral Hospitals.
2. Financial services essential for public welfare, including core banking networks, Interbank funds transfer and clearing systems, ATM networks, URA tax payment systems, government department-to-department payment gateways, and government international payment systems/gateways.
3. Critical Government administrative services, including immigration, electoral commission secure portals, voter verification systems, and result tabulation networks.
4. Utilities management, including power grid and payment systems, water supply control and payment, and fuel distribution logistics.
5. Transportation and aviation control systems, including air traffic control, and railway signalling.
5. Sim swaps and sim upgrade systems within existing regulations.
