Uganda President Museveni Justifies Internet Shutdown During Election

On 15 January 2026, 81‑year‑old Ugandan president Yoweri Museveni told Sky News he wants to add five years to his four‑decade rule while justifying a nationwide internet shutdown that has silenced Kampala. He compared the cut to a road closure, citing security threats and the alleged destabilisation by opposition forces, particularly 43‑year‑old singer‑politician Bobi Wine. In the lead‑up to the vote, 300 Wine supporters and party officials were arrested, and nine local human rights groups were suspended. Museveni highlighted economic growth – GDP rose from $3.9 billion to $70 billion – and warned that “senility” should not be a factor. Youth make up over 70 % of Uganda’s population, yet 40 years of Museveni’s rule persist.