Tech Experts Urge Government to Protect Internet Access Ahead of Uganda’s 2026 Elections

Kampala, Uganda

In the run-up to Uganda’s forthcoming general elections in 2026, digital rights advocates are raising the alarm about potential internet shutdowns and urging the government to commit to uninterrupted connectivity.

At a recent briefing, Pollicy Uganda’s Director of Programs, Philip Ayazika, emphasised that the internet is no longer a luxury but a fundamental tool for livelihoods, information and economic activity. “The people have a right to access the internet because the internet is no longer a luxury,” he said.

The concern is grounded in past precedent: across Africa, governments sometimes disable internet services during politically sensitive periods to stifle dissent or reduce the spread of information. Ayazika pointed to Cameroon, where shutdowns in its north-west and south-west regions lasted up to 230 days.

Why this matters:

Internet disruptions can hamper political campaigning, civic participation, independent monitoring and media freedom.

For Uganda, where mobile-internet and digital platforms play a growing role in commerce, education and everyday life, a shutdown would have economic as well as democratic implications.

With the 2026 vote approaching, observers say safeguarding connectivity is part of sustaining electoral transparency and citizen engagement.

Government & policy context:
While no shutdown has yet been announced, the country’s regulatory and legal architecture allows for broad executive powers over communications and security. Advocates argue that clear commitments or legislation guaranteeing access would boost confidence among citizens, media houses and tech firms alike.

Risks & Challenges:

Lack of transparency: Without public guarantees, citizens may be uncertain about their rights or ability to protest shutdowns.

Economic fallout: Interruptions in digital services can hurt e-commerce, mobile payments, logistics, and online services—sectors that are increasingly important for Uganda’s economy.

International image: In a globalised digital era, shutdowns draw adverse attention from investors, donor agencies and human rights organisations.

What’s next:
Digital rights groups are calling for:

A public pledge from the government to keep the internet open during the election period.

Engagement with telecom providers and stakeholders to prepare contingency plans.

Monitoring mechanisms to detect and report any disruptions swiftly.

As Uganda edges closer to its 2026 elections, the issue of internet access is more than a technical or infrastructure matter—it is central to how the country’s democratic process and digital economy will function. Ensuring connectivity may prove to be one of the quiet yet critical tests of the 2026 election environment.