US and UK Issue Warnings Ahead of Uganda Elections as Internet Shutdown Begins

Several Western countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, have cautioned their citizens to remain vigilant. In contrast, in Uganda as the country is preparing for its general elections scheduled for January 15, 2026.

In separate advisories released this week, the foreign missions cited past election-related unrest as a key concern. The UK Embassy in Kampala, in a notice issued on January 13, warned that previous political contests in Uganda have been accompanied by demonstrations that at times escalated into violence, resulting in injuries and deaths.

The embassy urged British nationals to closely monitor local developments, avoid large gatherings, and follow the guidance of local authorities as voting day approaches.

Similar warnings were also issued by the US and Canadian missions, advising their citizens to exercise caution during the election period, particularly in areas that may experience heightened political activity.

Bobi Wine

Internet Shutdown Ahead of Polls

As tensions rise ahead of the vote, Ugandan authorities have ordered a temporary shutdown of public internet access and selected mobile services during the election period.

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) announced that the restrictions will begin on Tuesday, January 13, at 6:00 pm, and will remain in effect throughout the voting process and the immediate post-election phase.

UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said the move is intended to protect national security and preserve public order by limiting the spread of misinformation, disinformation, and potential electoral manipulation.

Under the directive, internet service providers have been instructed to block access to social media platforms, mobile data services, and certain online communication tools. Providers who fail to comply risk facing regulatory penalties.

Essential Services Exempted

Despite the broad shutdown, the regulator clarified that critical services will continue to operate through secure and authorised channels. These include healthcare systems, financial and banking services, transport and aviation control, government administration, cybersecurity operations, and mobile network management.

Authorised personnel will access the internet through controlled methods such as private networks, approved VPNs, and dedicated IP ranges.

UCC acknowledged that the restrictions may inconvenience the public but advised citizens to make alternative communication arrangements during the shutdown. The commission assured Ugandans that internet services will be restored once the electoral process is deemed secure and orderly.