from HASSAN ONYANGO in Kampala, Uganda
Uganda Bureau
KAMPALA, (CAJ News) – UGANDA has finally restored public internet services following the conclusion of controversial elections held on Thursday.
Yet social media and messaging platforms remain restricted by authorities at the time of publishing (on Monday).
Elections were held on Thursday, and the internet was shut down on the eve of polls.
Nyombi Thembo, Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) said the restoration of the internet late Sunday followed a “careful assessment” by the Inter-Agency Security Committee.
“This phased and responsible return to connectivity reflects the commission’s commitment to balancing national security with the legitimate needs of citizens for information, communication and economic activity,” Thembo said.
He justified the shutdown, imposed on Wednesday, a day before the elections.
“The brief suspension of public internet was a necessary and proportionate step taken on the strong recommendation of the Inter-Agency Security Committee to safeguard public order, prevent the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, curb potential electoral fraud, and protect against incitement to violence during a highly sensitive national period.”
Late Sunday, NetBlocks reported that despite the restoration of connectivity in Uganda after a widespread internet shutdown spanning days during the election period, live metrics showed that multiple social media and messaging platforms remain restricted by authorities.
Early results indicate incumbent, Yoweri Museveni (81), has won another term at the helm of the East African country.
He has been in power since 1986.
Critics accuse his government of rigging elections to retain power.
– CAJ News