Twitter “strongly condemned” the suspension of access to social networking and messaging services in Uganda two days before the presidential election, saying that access to information, “including a public conversation on Twitter”, was of great importance during democratic processes, especially elections.
Twitter commented on reports that access to social networking and messaging services had been suspended in Uganda.
“We strongly condemn internet shutdowns – they are hugely harmful, violate basic human rights and the principles of the #OpenInternet,” the platform tweeted.
However, Twitter informed that earlier this week, “in close coordination with our peers,” a number of accounts “targeting the elections in Uganda” had been suspended.
“Access to information and freedom of expression, including a public conversation on Twitter, is never more important than during democratic processes, especially elections,” the social network said.
AFP had previously announced that two days before the presidential election on January 14 in Uganda, the country’s authorities had ordered Internet operators to suspend access to social networks and messaging services until further notice.
According to local media, days before the presidential election, Facebook blocked more than 50 accounts linked to the ruling National Resistance Movement.
Elections in Uganda
In Uganda, presidential and legislative elections will take place on January 14. Outgoing President Yoweri Museveni, 76, in power since 1986, is running for his sixth term. He faces the opponent Bobi Wine, 38, arrested several times for different reasons, then released.
Earlier, on January 8, two days after supporters of Donald Trump stormed the Capitol, Twitter permanently suspended his account, alleging the risk of “further incitement to violence” to justify his decision.
