Uganda Plans Tougher Online Content Regulations Ahead of 2026 Elections

As Uganda heads into another election season, the government has revealed plans to introduce tighter controls on digital content, citing the need to combat misinformation, hate speech, and divisive narratives.

According to the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology, and National Guidance, the internet has increasingly become a channel for content the government views as threatening to public order. Officials argue that with the general elections less than a year away, it is essential to safeguard citizens from narratives that could destabilize the country.

The regulations would place social media platforms, blogs, and independent digital outlets under stricter scrutiny, with penalties including fines and imprisonment for violations.

Tensions remain high after the controversial 2021 elections, during which the government imposed a nationwide internet blackout and faced accusations of electoral malpractice and human rights abuses.

However some have labeled it as a politically motivated attempt to limit free expression in the digital space, where many Ugandans, particularly the youth, engage in political activism and public debate.

According to Government officials, its the Government responsibility to foster a responsible online environment and prevent the spread of falsehoods that could incite violence or social unrest. They argue that digital freedom must be balanced with national security and social harmony.