Museveni vs Bobi Wine: New Media Ban Ignites Fear as Uganda Nears Historic Election

Uganda’s government has announced a sweeping restriction on live broadcasts of riots, “unlawful processions,” and other violent incidents. This decision comes as the country heads into a tightly contested general election scheduled for January 15, 2026. The directive was issued on January 5 by the Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology and National Guidance.

This applies to traditional media and digital platforms alike. Officials warn that such coverage can “escalate tensions and spread panic” during the sensitive pre-election period.

The statement emphasised that responsible election reporting is essential to maintaining peace and stability. It also prohibits the dissemination of what authorities describe as “inciting, hateful, or violent” content. Officials stressed that these measures are intended to curb the spread of misinformation. Hence preventing real-time coverage from inflaming already heightened political tensions.

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Permanent Secretary Dr. Aminah Zawedde and Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director Nyombi Thembo spoke at a press briefing in Kampala. They stressed that media freedom remains protected under the law. However, it must be exercised “responsibly” during the election period.

They reiterated that only the Electoral Commission is authorised to declare official results. They warned that airing unverified tallies could attract sanctions. These sanctions could include fines or licence revocations.

The move comes amid mounting concerns about political violence and information manipulation in the run-up to the election. Museveni, 81, is seeking a seventh term in office. He has ruled since 1986. Bobi Wine, 43, has galvanized young and urban voters.

Human rights groups have criticised the government’s actions, pointing to reports of hundreds of opposition supporters detained and allegations of arbitrary arrests, beatings and torture in recent weeks, which rights organisations describe as part of a broader crackdown on dissent.

Government officials have denied any plans to shut down the internet during the elections. They called such claims “false and misleading.” However, they insist that media and online platforms must avoid broadcasting content that could incite unrest.