Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) orders shut down the internet as the country heads into elections scheduled for Thursday 15th January 2026. This marks the second time such an action has been taken, following a similar shutdown during the 2021 general elections, which was widely criticised by international human rights organisations as a violation of fundamental freedoms.
In directives issued on 13 January 2026, UCC justified the shutdown as a necessary measure to combat the spread of electoral disinformation, fraud, and to prevent violence during the election period. However, this move has been identified by civil society actors and rights advocates as illegitimate, noting that access to information is a constitutional right guaranteed to all citizens.
During the 2021 elections, opposition groups strongly criticised the internet shutdown, arguing that blocking access not only undermines the democratic process but also creates an environment in which electoral fraud can thrive without public scrutiny.
The current developments come just a day after opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu stated that he would accept defeat if the election is conducted freely and fairly. He added that if the results indicate fraud, he would call upon Ugandans to demand their victory. This statement has since drawn warnings from security operatives.
On 15 December 2026, the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, warned voters against remaining at polling stations after voting. This followed calls by Robert Kyagulanyi urging supporters to stay behind and protect their votes. Gen Muhoozi stated that the Electoral Commission, together with candidates, appoints agents responsible for overseeing election results.
According to the Electoral Commission, voters are allowed to remain at polling stations during vote counting provided they maintain a distance of at least five metres from a gazetted tally centre and do not disrupt the process.
This election could see President Yoweri Museveni extend his leadership to a fifth term, marking nearly 40 years in power, or witness a change in leadership for the first time in four decades. It is also a historic moment, as more than 70 percent of Uganda’s population has never experienced leadership under any other president.
Factjaja calls upon Ugandans to turn up in large numbers to choose their leaders and to uphold a peaceful electoral process free from violence and misinformation. Combating disinformation in all its forms remains central to Factjaja’s mission. The organisation continues to operate independently, without influence from internal or external pressures.
Ugandans are encouraged to submit any suspicious or questionable claims during and after the election via WhatsApp on +256 779 325 733 or by email at editor@factjaja.com
