Joshua Ahabyona || Tayari News
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) on Sunday, 18th January, 2026, officially restored public internet access nationwide following the conclusion of presidential and parliamentary elections.
Speaking at a press briefing on Sunday, the Executive Director of UCC, Mr Nyombi Thembo, announced that the decision took effect at midnight on January 18, 2026, after a comprehensive security assessment by the Inter-Agency Security Committee.
“Following consultations with security stakeholders and a careful review of the prevailing situation, the Commission resolved to restore public internet access in the interest of normalcy and economic continuity,” Mr Nyombi said.
The UCC boss emphasised that the move reflects the regulatory authority’s commitment to balancing national security with citizens’ rights to information, communication, and participation in the digital economy.
“Our mandate is to ensure that while national security remains protected, Ugandans are not unduly deprived of their right to access information, conduct business, and stay connected,” he added.
Public internet services had been temporarily suspended during the election period as a preventive security measure. According to UCC, the suspension was intended to maintain public order, curb misinformation and disinformation, prevent electoral fraud, and reduce the risk of incitement to violence.
“This decision was taken to safeguard the integrity of the electoral process and to preserve the peace and stability that Ugandans have worked hard to build,” Hon. Nyombi explained.
With the restoration now in effect, the public can access essential online services, including websites, news platforms, educational resources, government portals, financial services, and email.
However, UCC clarified that social media platforms and over-the-top (OTT) messaging applications remain temporarily restricted as authorities continue to monitor the situation.
“We are proceeding cautiously. Certain platforms remain restricted as we continue to assess potential risks and ensure the digital space is not misused,” he noted, adding that further updates will be issued as conditions evolve.
Nyombi urged Ugandans to use the restored internet responsibly, cautioning against the spread of unverified information, hate speech, and inflammatory content.
“Freedom comes with responsibility. We appeal to all users to exercise restraint and avoid actions that could undermine public peace or national cohesion,” he said.
He commended citizens for their maturity during the election period and warned that misuse of digital platforms to incite disorder would not be tolerated.
“The cooperation shown by Ugandans during this period is commendable, but let me be clear, any attempt to abuse digital platforms to destabilise the country will be dealt with firmly,” he warned.
UCC reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with security agencies and called upon citizens, political actors, and media houses to promote peace, truth, and national unity.
In conclusion, Hon. Nyombi thanked telecom operators, security agencies, and the public for their patience and cooperation, reiterating UCC’s dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive, and secure digital environment for all Ugandans.