The Rise of Social Media Politics in Uganda’s Elections

In the 2021 general elections, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp played a central role in political campaigns, most notably for opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.

As Uganda moves toward the 2026 elections, the influence of social media in shaping the political landscape has become undeniable.

In the 2021 general elections, platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp played a central role in political campaigns, most notably for opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.

With more than 1 million followers on Facebook, Kyagulanyi leveraged social media to mobilize his youthful supporters.

Data from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) reveals that internet penetration in Uganda has climbed to over 52%, with more than 12 million Ugandans actively using social media.

This growing digital access has allowed political candidates to bypass traditional media filters, engaging directly with voters—particularly among the youth, who make up nearly 75% of the population under 30.

The shift from traditional outlets like radio and newspapers to social media has enabled political actors to disseminate information more swiftly and effectively.

During the 2021 elections, opposition parties relied heavily on these platforms to counter state narratives and campaign on critical issues such as unemployment, healthcare, and corruption.

However, government-imposed restrictions, including the 2020 introduction of a daily Shs200 social media tax and the internet shutdown on election day, aimed to curb online political activism.

These measures were met with public outcry, as critics accused the government of attempting to silence opposition voices.

Despite these hurdles, the use of VPNs surged, enabling Ugandans to continue participating in political discourse online.

The rise of social media in Uganda's politics has also introduced challenges, particularly the spread of misinformation and fake news.

A 2021 report by the African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) revealed that fake news and doctored images circulated widely on platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, with political operatives creating false accounts to spread propaganda.

The report noted that 45% of Ugandans receive their news primarily through social media, heightening the risk of misinformation influencing voter decisions.

In response, the Ugandan government has sought to regulate the digital space, proposing legislation to curb fake news.

However, critics argue that these measures may infringe on free speech. As the 2026 elections approach, the battle over accurate information will be just as crucial as the fight for votes.