KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Ugandan government is planning to shut down internet services to disrupt mobilization efforts by anti-corruption protesters, sources within the security establishment have revealed.
The recommendation to disrupt internet signals, including social media platforms such as Facebook and WhatsApp, was made by top security officials on Monday night during a security planning meeting, ahead of the planned protests dubbed “March2Parliament D-Day”
However, a top manager at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), the regulatory body responsible for internet services, denied receiving any communication from the government regarding an internet shutdown.
“But if the situation escalates and threatens national security, we would consider implementing measures to maintain order,” the UCC source said, leaving room for a potential shutdown if protests turn violent or disrupt public order.
This move is seen as a bid to stifle the momentum of peaceful protests, which have been gaining traction online.
Ugandan government has a history of switching off internet services during sensitive periods, including elections and protests.
In January 2021, the government shut down the country’s internet on the eve of presidential elections, a blackout that lasted over 100 hours and caused widespread disruption to businesses, communication, and the economy, resulting in estimated losses of over $6 million.
The planned shutdown has raised concerns about the government’s commitment to internet freedom and freedom of speech.
Facebook remains blocked in the country, accessible only through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).
Protesters, undeterred by the threat of an internet shutdown, are pouring on to the streets to demand action against corruption in Parliament, including the resignation of key officials and reforms to reduce the number of MPs and their salaries.
The government’s move has sparked fears of a repeat of past human rights abuses and economic disruptions.
