Human Rights Watch (HRW) stated on Thursday that the internet shutdown imposed during Uganda’s elections violates fundamental rights and undermines election integrity, urging authorities to immediately restore full internet access.

HRW researcher Tomiwa Ilori noted that by suspending internet services, Uganda has failed to comply with its obligations under the constitution and international law, which both guarantee the right to access information and that of freedom of expression. To restore credibility and protect the transparency of the electoral process, Ilori recommended restoration of full connectivity without delay.

HRW reported that Uganda’s telecommunications regulator, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), this month ordered all mobile network operators and internet services providers to suspend access nationwide just two days before the opening of elections, which violated article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information.

According to the group, the shutdown is part of a broader crackdown on rights and civil society, as authorities have also suspended the work of several civil society organizations and activists during the same period. Consequently, HRW called on telecommunications companies to take the necessary measures to push back against the internet shutdown and to comply with international law. It also called on Uganda’s international partners to press Ugandan authorities to comply with international standards by lifting the internet restrictions.

In response, the UCC denied the implementation of a nationwide internet shutdown, calling the allegations false, unfounded and misleading. It said that the government knew of the importance of the right to access information and digital inclusion during the election period, but feared the spread of false information online. The UCC urged internet users to verify information before sharing it, warning of attempts to spread misinformation and disturb the public order. The commission further demanded that media actors report responsibly without inciting violence or undermining the credibility of the electoral process.

Uganda is scheduled to hold presidential and parliamentary elections on January 15. However, the lead up has seen widespread unrest attributed to restrictions on freedom of assembly and civil space as well as clashes between security forces and opposition supporters. Earlier this month, Amnesty International condemned the unlawful use of force by security forces against opposition rallies.

On January 10, HRW expressed concern about the arrest of a prominent government critic ahead of the elections. Rights organizations have also criticized the elections for lacking credibility, describing them as mechanisms to “reinforce incumbent power rather than promote accountability.”

Additionally, Amnesty International condemned the Ugandan authorities’ decision to shut down mobile phone and internet services, describing this action as a human rights violation.