Uganda Partially Restores Internet After Election, Keeping Social Media Blocked

Ugandan authorities have partially restored internet services following the country’s presidential election, state and industry sources said on Sunday, days after a shutdown imposed ahead of voting sparked domestic and international criticism.

Connectivity resumed late on Saturday, with users reporting that general access was restored around 11 p.m. local time, but social media platforms and some messaging services remain blocked, according to telecommunications providers. Airtel Uganda confirmed the move and said it was ordered by regulators so that businesses dependent on connectivity could resume operations.

The partial restoration came after President Yoweri Museveni, 81, was declared the winner of the national poll with roughly 71.6% of the vote, extending his rule into a seventh term — a result rejected by opposition leaders and criticised by rights groups. The internet blackout, which began two days before the vote, was defended by the government as a measure to curb “misinformation” and protect public order, though observers said it undermined transparency and access to information.

Opposition figures, including musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, and regional election observers raised concerns over the shutdown and other restrictions during the electoral period, saying they hindered independent oversight and contributed to mistrust among voters. Protests were reported following the election results, though authorities said the situation was under control.

The decision to keep social media offline while restoring other parts of the internet reflects ongoing tension over information flow and civic space in Uganda as it navigates a contested political transition after more than four decades under Museveni’s leadership.

SOURCE: Reuters