Uganda Shuts Down Internet Ahead of Contentious Presidential Election

Internet Shutdown Ahead of Election

• internet access and mobile services were cut across Uganda on Tuesday by authorities, two days before a presidential election.
• 🎯 The Uganda Communications Commission directed mobile companies to block public internet, citing protecting national security, public safety, and public order.
• ⚠️ This action contradicts the government's previous denial of plans to shut down the internet during the election period.

Political Context and Opposition Crackdown

• 🗳️ President Yoweri Museveni is seeking a contentious seventh term after being in power since 1986.
• ✊ Security forces have arrested hundreds of opposition supporters and used force to break up campaign events for Bobby Wine, the main rival.
• ⏳ Museveni, one of Africa's longest-serving leaders, has removed age and term limits from the constitution to remain in power.
• 📊 Analysts suggest Museveni's control over government institutions makes his defeat unlikely in the country of 46 million people.