Electoral Commission Dismisses Claims of Internet Shutdown Plans in 2026 General Elections

By BM

The Electoral Commission has dismissed allegations that it plans to shut down or restrict internet access during Uganda’s 2026 general elections, reaffirming its commitment to transparency, open communication, and freedom of the press.

Responding to questions from the journalists during a media workshop on the electoral process at Royal Suites in Bugolobi, Kampala, on Friday, Julius Mucunguzi, the Commission’s spokesperson, clarified that the body had no plans to interfere with online platforms or disrupt digital communication.

He explained that the Commission would not make any changes to the internet or take any action that could be interpreted as an attempt to limit access, saying such measures would not serve citizens’ interests.

Mucunguzi’s remarks came amid ongoing public concern about the possibility of internet restrictions during the upcoming elections, following the government’s decision to shut down social media and restrict internet access during the January 2021 general elections.

That move drew criticism from civil society and international observers who said it undermined transparency and the flow of information.

Mucunguzi emphasized that the Electoral Commission valued press freedom and viewed the media as a vital partner in promoting credible, peaceful, and transparent elections.

He said the Commission did not want to see journalists arrested during elections, stressing that security forces should focus on protecting the nation from external threats rather than targeting the media.

Mucunguzi also noted that the nature of journalism had changed significantly, with many practitioners taking on multiple roles as editors, reporters, digital publishers, and talk show hosts.

He said this shift should be seen as a positive development that enables faster communication and more diverse coverage of electoral issues.

Mucunguzi encouraged media professionals to uphold independence and objectivity in their reporting.

He urged them to openly raise any challenges or irregularities they might encounter during the electoral process, explaining that transparency and constructive criticism help the Commission improve its operations.

He reiterated that the Electoral Commission operates in the public interest and remains committed to engaging all stakeholders to ensure credible and peaceful elections in 2026.

The workshop, which brought together editors, reporters, and media owners from various outlets, sought to strengthen collaboration between the Commission and the media in promoting accurate reporting, voter education, and public confidence in the electoral process. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).