Uganda shuts down internet ahead of general election
"Social media and messaging platforms restricted, internet shut down in Uganda ahead of general election"
Network data from the NetBlocks Internet Observatory confirm widespread restrictions to social media and online communication platforms on major internet providers in Uganda as of Tuesday 12 January 2021. Findings reveal the extent of restrictions issued by order of the Uganda Communications Commission ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections on the 14th.
Update: Internet service has been shut down by the government as of 7 p.m. Wednesday 13 January 2021, leaving citizens in an information vacuum as of early morning election day...
Previously, from Tuesday to Wednesday evening metrics showed that Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat, Skype, Viber, Google Play Store, some Telegram servers and link shortening services were among a lengthy list of pre-selected online platforms unavailable via Uganda’s main cell network operators...