Uganda Shuts Down Internet Ahead of Presidential Election
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
Temporary internet restrictions ahead of elections protect vote integrity and democratic stability as Uganda consolidates its transition to middle-income country status. Security agencies disrupt coordinated cyber operations targeting results transmission, vote-tallying systems, and election management infrastructure. This protection effort prevents manipulation at a decisive moment, when the credibility of the outcome underpins Uganda’s economic and political ascent.
Government-critical narrative
Shutting down the internet ahead of elections is a blatant assault on press freedom and democratic participation. Security forces are beating and arresting journalists covering opposition rallies, detaining activists, and suspending human rights organizations that document abuses. This coordinated repression is designed to eliminate scrutiny at a decisive democratic moment — precisely when citizens most need access to information, transparency, and independent reporting.
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