Uganda’s government says it will continue a ban on access to social media platforms even as broader internet connectivity returns to much of the country following the presidential election.
Authorities lifted a nationwide internet blackout that began ahead of the Jan. 15 vote, but major social platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp, X and TikTok remain restricted, officials said Sunday.
Uganda Communications Commission said the limits are temporary and aimed at preserving public order.
The nationwide shutdown was imposed nearly two days before the polls, with the government saying the move was necessary to prevent misinformation, disinformation and incitement to violence during a highly sensitive election period.
Opposition figures and some international observers criticized the move, arguing it undermined transparency and restricted freedom of expression.
“Social media platform remain temporarily restricted to continue safeguarding against misuse that could threaten public order,” said George Nyombi Thembo, executive director of the communications regulator.
Despite the partial return of internet access, protests were reported in parts of the capital Kampala following the announcement of the election results, with some areas hearing tear gas deployed during scattered demonstrations.
President Museveni, in power since 1986, secured a seventh term with more than 70% of the vote, according to official results.
Meanwhile, opposition leaders have rejected the outcome as flawed.
