Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director Thembo Nyombi has assured Ugandans that the country will remain connected during the January 15 general elections, dismissing circulating rumors of a potential internet shutdown.
Speaking on the NBS Morning Breeze on Wednesday , Nyombi said the speculation is unfounded.
“The bottom line? Uganda deserves connectivity, not shutdowns,” he said, adding that fear can be as disruptive as technical glitches.
Nyombi noted that while the government maintains oversight on national security what he called “statutory eyes” UCC has received no requests or directives to suspend internet services.
On the contrary, the agency has been receiving increasing requests from citizens for improved connectivity.
The executive director highlighted the rapid growth of citizen journalism in Uganda, calling it a positive development for public engagement, but warned of the risks posed by misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation online.
“I urge all content creators and broadcasters to be ethical, reject hate speech, and avoid weaponising the internet,” he said.
Nyombi also clarified the legal status of messaging apps, noting that no platform is illegal on its own, but using any app to break the law constitutes a regulatory offense.
He emphasized that UCC favors compliance-focused approaches over heavy-handed measures, aiming to keep digital services accessible while ensuring the law is respected.
He called for responsible internet use to promote national growth and a safe digital environment as the country heads into elections.
Uganda is set to hold presidential, parliamentary, and local government elections starting January 15, with political activity intensifying nationwide