Uganda restores internet access after election blackout

Uganda restores internet access after election blackout

Uganda has begun restoring internet connectivity after imposing a nationwide blackout ahead of elections that saw 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni secure a seventh term in office.

Reuters reported that users started regaining access late on Saturday evening, with service providers confirming the Uganda Communications Commission had authorised the resumption of services, although access to social media platforms remained restricted.

An Airtel Uganda spokesperson said the operator restored connectivity to allow businesses dependent on the internet to resume operations.

The Communications Commission defended the shutdown, arguing it was necessary to curb the spread of misinformation, election fraud and related risks. However, the move drew criticism from the opposition, led by pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, as well as an African Union election observer mission, which said the involvement of the military and other authorities in cutting internet access limited access to information, freedom of association and economic activity.