Permanent Secretary Ministry of ICT, Dr Aminah Zawedde, has dismissed claims that the government plans to shut down the internet ahead of next week’s General Election, saying no such directive has been issued or announced.
Zawedde made the clarification while addressing the media in Kampala where she addressed public concerns about internet access and reports of possible disruptions to banking and mobile money services during the election period.
“As we near the election period, public participation naturally increases in any democracy,” Zawedde said. “Unfortunately, this has also come with a rise in misinformation, much of it circulating on digital platforms.”
“One of the recurring allegations is that government intends to switch off the internet during the elections. This information is false,” she stated.
Zawedde cautioned online media to adhere to existing laws, stressing that the Computer Misuse Act applies fully to digital platforms.
“Freedom of expression must be exercised responsibly and within legal limits, particularly when it comes to spreading false or offensive content,”She stressed.
She also warned against live broadcasting or online streaming of riots and violent incidents, saying such actions can trigger fear, panic and instability.
“Responsible media coverage during elections is not optional,” she said. “It is critical to maintaining peace, public order and national stability. Media platforms must not be used to incite violence, spread false information or undermine confidence in the electoral process.”
She however warned that government will not tolerate the abuse of traditional or digital media by individuals or political actors pursuing personal or political interests at the expense of public order.
She noted that the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), working with other stakeholders, is actively monitoring both broadcast and online media throughout the election period.
“Any violations will be handled in accordance with the law, including the application of regulatory sanctions where necessary,” she said.
By early 2025, Uganda had around 14.2 million internet users, with penetration at 28.0%, though figures varied by late 2025 reports showing mobile internet users hitting 17 million by Q3 and over 26 million actively online by mid-year, highlighting significant mobile-driven growth and persistent affordability/skills gaps despite strong usage