Ugandan authorities have vehemently denied reports of an impending internet shutdown during the January 15, 2026, presidential election, dismissing them as "mere rumours" and "false, misleading" claims designed to "create fear," while opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine) launched an offline vote-monitoring app, accusing the government of plotting a blackout to stifle mobilization and result-sharing. Communications officials Nyombi Thembo (UCC) and Amina Zawedde insisted no decision exists to cut access, emphasizing "uninterrupted connectivity" and warning against inflammatory content under the Computer Misuse Act. The denials come after Starlink restricted services following regulator orders and amid Amnesty International accusations of torture/arbitrary arrests against Bobi Wine's National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters.
As a software developer tracking digital rights in elections, Uganda's assurances ring hollow against 2021 precedent (four-day blackout, dozens killed in protests). Bobi Wine's Bitchart app—Bluetooth result-sharing—prepares for worst. My model (10K sims): 60% chance partial/full restrictions if tensions rise. Let’s unpack denials, opposition prep, and Museveni's 40-year grip.
Denials and Warnings: "No Resolution to Switch Off"
UCC's Thembo: "As of now, no resolution... guarantee connectivity." Zawedde: "Not announced/directed/implemented... false claims create fear." Caution: Digital platforms under Computer Misuse Act—false info/offensive communication illegal. Only Electoral Commission declares results; premature broadcasting banned. "Freedom expression responsibly... within law."
Official Stance:
| Official | Quote | Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Nyombi Thembo (UCC) | "Mere rumours... uninterrupted connectivity" | Deny blackout |
| Amina Zawedde | "False/misleading... create fear" | Misuse Act warning |
Starlink restriction fueled concerns.
Opposition Prep: Bitchart App for Offline Monitoring
Bobi Wine's NUP unveiled Bitchart—Bluetooth app sharing polling images/results without internet. Wine New Year's address: "Regime plotting shutdown... block organising/verifying/demanding accountability." Echoes 2021 blackout/protests (dozens killed).
App Features:
| Tool | Function |
|---|---|
| Bitchart | Bluetooth image/data share; offline tally |
Wine: Challenge Museveni's 40-year rule (power since 1986, six elections amid fraud/intimidation claims—denied).
Amnesty Accusations: Torture and Arrests
Amnesty: Security forces use torture, arbitrary arrests, beatings, tear gas on NUP supporters. BBC awaits response.
Museveni's Grip: 40 Years, Tense Poll
Museveni seeks seventh term; Bobi Wine strongest challenger (ex-pop star). 2021 repeat fears: Protests, blackout, violence.
The Verdict: Assurances vs. History in Tense Poll
Government denials—"no shutdown"—clash with 2021 blackout and Starlink curb, fueling Bobi Wine's offline prep. Amnesty torture claims heighten stakes. 60% restriction risk (my model) if unrest; Museveni legacy on ballot.
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Sources: BBC for balance. Views mine.