Digital Silence? Uganda’s Online Freedoms Face Election-Year Clampdown

By The Urban Gazette Political Desk

As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, fears are mounting that the country’s digital space — once seen as a rare outlet for free expression — is closing fast. Civic groups, opposition politicians, and media watchdogs report an intensifying campaign of surveillance, intimidation, and regulatory crackdowns aimed at silencing dissent.

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has proposed new rules requiring bloggers, influencers, and even small online publications to register before sharing “political content.” Critics argue the language is deliberately vague and gives government broad powers to penalize critics.

Meanwhile, several journalists and youth activists have reported being summoned by security agencies after posts deemed “sensitive” were flagged. Some were accused of spreading “misinformation,” but rights groups say the real aim is to muzzle opposition voices.

Background:
Uganda has a long history of contentious internet regulation. In 2018, the government introduced a social media tax, which drew global criticism and was later scrapped. More recently, during the 2021 election, access to platforms like Facebook and Twitter was blocked for weeks.

Implications for 2026:
Analysts say the tightening of digital controls could significantly shape the campaign environment. With much of Uganda’s youth using social media as their primary source of news, limiting access or punishing users could tilt the political playing field.

Civic Activist:

“This is not about protecting citizens from fake news; it’s about controlling the narrative ahead of 2026.”