Pre‑election internet suspension ordered by regulator The Uganda Communications Commission instructed all providers to halt internet traffic at 18:00 local time on Tuesday, while voice calls and basic SMS remained functional; the notice gave no deadline for restoring service [1]. Regular mobile‑data users reported complete loss of connectivity, yet some large hotels continued to offer wireless access for guests [1]. The shutdown was implemented just days before the national election scheduled for Thursday [1].

Authorities cite misinformation prevention as motive The UCC justified the blackout as a measure to block online misinformation, disinformation, electoral fraud, and any incitement to violence that could arise during the vote [1]. Officials referenced the 2021 election, when a week‑long internet cut followed widespread protests, to underscore the perceived security risk [1]. No alternative monitoring mechanisms were described in the announcement [1].

Opposition adopts Bluetooth workaround amid blackout Opposition leader Bobi Wine posted the regulator’s letter on X and urged supporters to download a Bluetooth‑based application that would enable offline communication between devices [1]. The UCC warned that it could move to restrict the app, signaling potential legal or technical pushback [1]. This tactic reflects the opposition’s attempt to circumvent the digital barrier and maintain campaign coordination [1].

Campaign messaging continues despite connectivity limits Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni campaigned on continuity with the slogan “Protecting the Gains,” while Bobi Wine promoted a “Protest Vote” narrative aimed at generational change [1]. Despite the internet outage, campaign messages persisted through SMS, voice calls, and the Bluetooth app, illustrating adaptive communication strategies [1]. Business sectors experienced uneven impact, with hotels retaining Wi‑Fi but most consumers left offline [1].