Uganda’s government has introduced new restrictions on the importation of Starlink satellite internet equipment, just weeks before the country’s highly anticipated presidential election on January 15, 2026. The decision has raised concerns among opposition leaders, who fear that the government may be preparing for another internet blackout, similar to the one that occurred during the 2021 election. The move has added a layer of tension to a race that pits long-time President Yoweri Museveni, 81, against pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine, 43, for the second time.
Background: Museveni vs. Wine – A Controversial Election
In the 2021 presidential election, Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades, faced off against Wine, a popular opposition leader. The election was marred by allegations of fraud and electoral misconduct. Wine, who came in second place, claimed that the results were rigged, a charge that Museveni vehemently denies. One of the most controversial aspects of the 2021 election was the government-imposed internet blackout, which lasted for several days and prevented Ugandans from accessing vital information during the election period.
Now, with the 2026 election drawing near, opposition figures are once again raising concerns about the government’s actions. The new restrictions on Starlink imports have only fueled these fears, with many questioning why the government is taking such measures if there are no plans to interfere with the election process.
The Restrictions on Starlink Equipment
The restrictions on Starlink equipment were revealed in a leaked memo from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) dated December 19, 2025. The memo, which circulated on social media, stated that all imports of Starlink technology gadgets, communication equipment, and associated components would now require approval from the head of the military, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Museveni.
Kainerugaba, a prominent military figure and political figure in Uganda, is seen by many as a potential successor to Museveni, further adding to the controversy surrounding the restrictions. While the Uganda Revenue Authority attempted to downplay the restrictions, claiming that many countries regulate the importation of communication technologies, the timing of the decision has raised suspicions.
Many Ugandans had been importing Starlink devices on their own, bypassing the lack of official licensing for the service in the country. Starlink, owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX, is a satellite-based internet service that provides high-speed internet access to underserved regions around the world. Despite not having an official license to operate in Uganda, Starlink has become a popular alternative for those seeking reliable internet access, especially in rural areas where traditional internet infrastructure is limited.
Opposition Reaction and Concerns
Bobi Wine, the opposition leader and presidential candidate, wasted no time in criticizing the new restrictions. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Wine called the move “ridiculous” and questioned the government’s motives: “If they’re not planning electoral fraud, why are they so scared of people accessing the internet during the electoral process?” His comments reflect the growing belief among opposition groups that the government is taking steps to limit free access to information in an effort to suppress dissent and control the election narrative.
Wine has long been a vocal critic of Museveni’s government, accusing it of suppressing political opposition, committing human rights abuses, and engaging in corruption. As a former rebel leader, Museveni has been credited with stabilizing Uganda and promoting economic growth, but his critics argue that his rule has become increasingly authoritarian, with little tolerance for opposition voices.
The Implications of Starlink Restrictions
The new restrictions on Starlink imports are just the latest in a series of actions by the Museveni administration that opposition leaders and human rights organizations argue are aimed at stifling dissent and controlling the flow of information. If Starlink’s services are blocked or restricted during the election, many fear that it could severely limit the ability of Ugandans to communicate freely, particularly during a time of heightened political activity and scrutiny.
The internet blackout during the 2021 election served as a clear example of the government’s ability to disrupt digital communications. By limiting access to information, the government effectively cut off citizens from real-time news and updates, hampering the opposition’s ability to organize and communicate with their supporters.
With the 2026 election now just weeks away, the potential for another internet blackout is a major concern for both local and international observers. The decision to restrict Starlink equipment comes at a time when global attention is focused on Uganda’s political environment and the state of its democracy.
Museveni’s Hold on Power
President Museveni has been in power for nearly 40 years and is seeking to extend his rule through the upcoming election. His political longevity has been marked by the amendment of the constitution—twice—removing age and term limits, allowing him to remain in office indefinitely. This move has led to accusations of authoritarianism and political repression from both domestic critics and international observers.
Despite these criticisms, Museveni retains significant support within Uganda, especially in rural areas, where he is credited with stabilizing the country and improving its economic prospects. However, the country’s growing youth population and the increasing dissatisfaction with his government’s handling of political freedoms and civil rights have made the upcoming election a pivotal moment in Uganda’s political trajectory.
A Tense Election Ahead
As Uganda approaches its January 2026 election, the restrictions on Starlink equipment are just one of many signs of growing tension in the lead-up to the vote. Opposition leaders, civil society groups, and international observers will be watching closely to see how the government handles election-related communications and whether it will impose further restrictions on the flow of information. For now, the restrictions on Starlink serve as a reminder of the ongoing battle for political freedom and free expression in Uganda.
With internet access becoming an increasingly important tool for organizing, communicating, and monitoring elections, the stakes in Uganda’s upcoming vote are higher than ever. Whether or not the government will attempt another internet blackout remains to be seen, but the impact of such actions on Uganda’s democratic process could have lasting repercussions.
