American satellite internet provider Starlink has suspended its services in Uganda following a directive from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), leaving thousands of users offline just weeks before the country’s general election.
In a letter confirming the move, Starlink said the UCC raised concerns over the unauthorised and illegal use of Starlink satellite internet services within Uganda, prompting the company to comply with the regulator’s request.
Concerns Over Internet Access Before Polls
The shutdown has sparked widespread concern among opposition leaders, activists, and civil society groups, who fear restricted internet access could undermine transparency during the January 15, 2026 general election.
Uganda has a history of internet disruptions during politically sensitive periods, including a nationwide shutdown during the 2021 elections, which drew international criticism.
Bobi Wine Calls for Restoration of Services
Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, has urged authorities to immediately restore Starlink services, warning that the suspension threatens free expression, election monitoring, and fair political competition.
“The internet must remain accessible for a free and fair electoral process,” Bobi Wine said, as concerns grow over possible state-imposed restrictions on digital communication.
Fears of Repeat of 2021 Internet Blackout
Activists and opposition supporters seeking to unseat President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for over four decades, say the Starlink shutdown has heightened fears of a broader internet blackout during the polls.
They argue that satellite internet services like Starlink had become a critical alternative to traditional networks, especially during periods of government-ordered restrictions.
Regulatory Standoff
The UCC has previously warned against the use of unlicensed satellite communication services, insisting that all providers must comply with national regulations. However, critics say the timing of Starlink’s suspension raises serious questions about digital rights and electoral integrity.
As the election date approaches, pressure is mounting on the Ugandan government to guarantee open internet access and reassure citizens and the international community of a transparent electoral process.
