Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine, has called on tech mogul Elon Musk to restore Starlink internet services in the country, alleging that the current blackout is a strategic move by the government to stifle dissent.
In a public appeal made on Monday, January 5, 2026, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP) accused President Yoweri Museveni of suppressing free expression ahead of the general election scheduled for January 15.
Okay News reports that Starlink recently suspended its operations in Uganda following a directive from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). The regulatory body issued a complaint regarding the “unauthorized use” of satellite internet services, stating that Starlink is not currently licensed to operate within the country’s borders.
In response, Starlink implemented a service restriction tool on New Year’s Day, effectively disconnecting all active terminals in the region.
Bobi Wine’s plea highlighted the critical role of digital connectivity in ensuring a transparent electoral process, warning that “democracy dies in darkness.” He urged Musk to look past regulatory hurdles to support the rights of Ugandan citizens to communicate and access information. This appeal comes at a time of heightened political tension, with Museveni seeking to extend his 40-year rule amid domestic and international criticism over human rights.
The shutdown has drawn widespread condemnation from civil society organizations, who point to Uganda’s history of imposing communication blackouts during previous election cycles. As the country prepares for the upcoming polls, the absence of independent internet channels like Starlink has fueled concerns that the electoral process may lack the necessary oversight and transparency.
