VOCAL Africa has strongly condemned the Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) directive to suspend public internet access and mobile services during the 2026 election period, describing it as a deliberate attempt to silence dissent and hide potential electoral irregularities.
In a statement released on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, the human rights organization criticized the Ugandan government for blocking social media platforms, messaging apps, and personal emails, plunging the nation into a digital blackout.
“By blocking social media, messaging apps, and personal emails, the Ugandan government is deliberately plunging the nation into a digital blackout to stifle dissent and hide potential electoral irregularities from the global community,” VOCAL Africa said.
The group emphasized that the move is a blatant violation of fundamental human rights, including the right to freedom of expression and access to information, which are essential for any credible democratic process.
VOCAL Africa demanded that the UCC “immediately rescind this directive and restore full connectivity to all citizens.”
The organization also rejected the government’s justification of “national security” as a cover for state-sponsored censorship and voter intimidation.
“Shutting down the internet does not protect the public; it endangers lives by cutting off essential communication and creating a vacuum for misinformation,” the statement noted.
VOCAL Africa further called on international bodies to hold Ugandan authorities accountable, saying it stands in solidarity with the people of Uganda in opposing this calculated assault on digital democracy.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) on Tuesday ordered a temporary suspension of public internet access and mobile services during the election period as the country is set to hold elections on Thursday amid rising political tensions.
Critics argue that such restrictions undermine democratic participation, freedom of expression, and electoral transparency.
The directive, dated January 13, 2026, was addressed to the chief executive officers of all licensed telecom operators. According to the UCC, the action follows a recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee (IASC).
“Following a strong recommendation from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) duly directs all licensed Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) and Internet Service Providers (ISPs) to implement a temporary suspension of the following services,” the notice read.
The measures include suspending public internet access, halting the sale and registration of new SIM cards, and restricting outbound data roaming services to One Network Area countries.
The UCC said the restrictions are intended to prevent the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, and electoral fraud, as well as to stop incitement to violence.
“This measure is necessary to mitigate the rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and related risks, as well as preventing incitement of violence that could affect public confidence and national security during the election period,” the commission stated.
