By KT Reporter
Human rights advocates have filed a petition in court challenging the move by the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to shut down the internet ahead of the 15th January 2026 presidential and parliamentary elections. The petitioners, Michael Aboneka and Raymond Amumpaire, argue that the shutdown, which was in place between 13th and 17th January 2026, violates several constitutional rights, including the right to free expression, access to information, education, life and livelihood, and participation in the affairs of government, among others.
Aboneka explained that by shutting down the internet, the commission undermined the right to education under Article 30 of the Constitution, as students could not access online classes conducted through WhatsApp groups and other social media platforms used for learning.
We cannot engage in our daily economic and educational activities because of this shutdown, and the losses we have incurred are significant.”
He highlighted that many businesses, including Safe Boda operators and online food vendors, were unable to operate during the blackout.
The petitioners are therefore seeking an order for full internet restoration and compensation from telecom companies for the internet bundles that were wasted.
Ahead of the shutdown, UCC spokesperson Nyombi Thembo had defended the move at a press conference, saying it was intended to curb misinformation, prevent election fraud, and maintain public order.
However, the lawyers representing Aboneka and Amumpaire argue that while UCC claims the shutdown was necessary to protect national security, there was no legal process or evidence to justify the measure, and the commission has not demonstrated that the internet would have fueled protests or unrest.
The petitioners are seeking compensation of 100 million shillings each for the alleged violation of their rights.
The internet shutdown in Uganda reflects a growing global concern about the use of digital blackouts during elections.
International human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and the United Nations, have consistently stated that access to the internet is a fundamental tool for freedom of expression and participation in public life.
Under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which Uganda is a party, governments are expected to limit restrictions on freedom of expression only when strictly necessary and proportionate, such as in cases of imminent threats to life or security.
Blanket shutdowns that prevent citizens from accessing information, communicating, or conducting business often fail this test.
The UN Human Rights Council and the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) have similarly condemned pre-election internet shutdowns as undermining democracy and violating citizens’ rights.
Such actions not only limit political debate but also affect education, healthcare, commerce, and other essential services , echoing the real-life disruptions experienced by Ugandans during this recent blackout.
By bringing this petition, Aboneka and Amumpaire’s case places Uganda under scrutiny for potentially breaching both its own constitutional rights framework and international human rights obligations, highlighting the tension between national security claims and citizens’ fundamental freedoms in the digital
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