Government has announced that access to all social media platforms will be fully restored today, Monday, January 26, ending weeks of restrictions imposed during Uganda’s recent general elections.
The announcement was made by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, in a post shared on his X account on Monday morning. He thanked Ugandans for their patience and cooperation during the election period.
“We are releasing all social media today. I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and co-operation throughout this electoral season,” Muhoozi said, adding that the public’s resilience gave leaders “the courage to serve.”
Uganda’s internet shutdown began on January 13, when government directed all mobile network operators and internet service providers to suspend public internet access and selected mobile services ahead of the January 14 general elections. Authorities cited national security concerns, arguing that restrictions were necessary to prevent misinformation, unrest, and interference with the electoral process.
The decision resulted in a nationwide blackout of internet services, severely disrupting communication, business operations, and access to information.
On January 18, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) announced that general internet connectivity had been restored. However, it clarified that access to social media platforms and over-the-top (OTT) services would remain restricted until further notice.
The prolonged limitation on social media drew criticism from opposition politicians and civil society organisations, who accused the government of using digital restrictions to suppress dissent and limit scrutiny during and after the elections.
The shutdown also had economic consequences, particularly for Ugandans whose livelihoods depend on digital platforms, including online traders, content creators, freelancers, and digital marketers, many of whom reported significant financial losses.
The full restoration of social media is expected to ease communication and economic activity across the country, restoring access to platforms that play a central role in information sharing, political discourse, and digital commerce.
