The government has dismissed claims that it plans to shut down the internet during the upcoming general elections, describing the reports as false and misleading.
Speaking at a press briefing on Monday, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Aminah Zawedde, said no decision has been taken to switch off the internet as the country heads into the election period scheduled for January 15, 2026.
“The government has not announced, nor directed, any internet shutdown during the elections,” Zawedde said, adding that such claims are intended to cause fear and confusion among the public.
She noted that as political activities intensify, public engagement—both online and offline—is expected to increase, but warned that this has also been accompanied by a rise in misinformation across digital and traditional media platforms.
Zawedde emphasized that ICT and media platforms play a critical role in democratic participation and must be used responsibly.
She said the ministry, working with regulatory bodies including the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), has engaged broadcasters and other media stakeholders across the country to promote professionalism, ethical reporting and accountability during election coverage.
Officials stressed that responsible media use is essential to maintaining peace, public order and national stability.
They warned that misuse of media platforms by political actors or individuals to advance narrow interests, including the broadcasting or sharing of unverified or premature election results, will not be tolerated.
The UCC, working with other stakeholders, is actively monitoring both broadcast and online media to ensure compliance with existing communication laws. Further guidance, officials said, will be issued by the UCC Executive Director.
As Election Day approaches, government has urged media owners, journalists and the public to rely on official sources of information and to verify content before sharing it online.
“We appeal to the public to avoid spreading misinformation intended to cause fear or division, including claims urging people to close businesses or withdraw money due to alleged internet shutdowns,” officials said.
They reiterated that no directive has been issued to prepare for an internet blackout, assuring Ugandans that ICT services will continue to support a peaceful and credible electoral process.