M7’s son and army chief, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, lifts social media restrictions after election blockage
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who confirmed that access to all major social media platforms had been reinstated nationwide.
Ugandan authorities have lifted restrictions on social media platforms following the conclusion of the country’s electoral season, restoring full access after weeks of heightened controls.
The announcement was made on Tuesday by Senior Presidential Adviser on Special Operations, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who confirmed that access to all major social media platforms had been reinstated nationwide.
“We are releasing all social media today,” Kainerugaba said in a brief statement shared on his official social media account.
He commended Ugandans for their patience and cooperation during the election period, noting that public discipline had contributed to stability at a time of heightened political activity.
“I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and co-operation throughout this electoral season,” he said, adding that citizens had given leaders “the courage to serve.”
In Uganda, restrictions on social media are commonly imposed during election periods, with authorities citing concerns related to misinformation, public order and national security. However, such measures have frequently attracted criticism from civil society organisations, opposition leaders and digital rights advocates, who argue that shutdowns infringe on freedom of expression and limit access to information.
The restoration of social media access is expected to ease communication for businesses, media organisations and millions of Ugandans who depend on online platforms for news, commerce and social interaction.
As the country transitions from the electoral period, observers say focus will now shift to post-election governance, national reconciliation and addressing concerns raised during the polls.
