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President Yoweri Museveni has defended his government’s decision to shut down the internet, saying the move was necessary to protect the country from criminals and people he claims wanted to destabilize Uganda.
Speaking during an interview with the BBC, Museveni strongly argued that the government had the authority to temporarily switch off internet services.
According to Museveni, the internet is infrastructure built by the state, just like roads, electricity, and bridges. He stated clearly, “We are the ones who built the internet,” insisting that the government has the responsibility and power to control it when national security is under threat.
The president explained that the shutdown was not meant to punish ordinary citizens. Instead, he said it was a security measure aimed at stopping criminals who were allegedly planning to use online platforms to cause chaos during the election period.
Museveni emphasized that the shutdown was temporary and short-term. He reassured the public that the government had no intention of permanently denying Ugandans access to the internet. In his words, the action was taken only to deal with an immediate problem.
During the interview, the BBC journalist challenged Museveni’s argument. The interviewer asked whether building the internet automatically gives the government the right to shut it down whenever it wants. This question reflected concerns shared by many Ugandans and international observers.
In response, Museveni rejected the idea that the shutdown was an abuse of power. He compared the internet shutdown to a road closure, saying that just as roads can be temporarily closed for safety reasons, the internet can also be switched off when necessary.
“It’s like a road closure,” Museveni said. This comparison was meant to show that the government’s decision was practical and protective, not political or oppressive, as critics have claimed.
However, many Ugandans experienced serious difficulties during the shutdown. Businesses that rely on online communication were disrupted, families struggled to stay in touch, and journalists found it difficult to report events accurately.
Social media platforms, which many young people use for information and expression, were especially affected. For several days, users were unable to access popular apps, leading to frustration and anger across the country.
Opposition leaders and civil society groups criticized the shutdown, saying it violated freedom of expression and access to information. They argued that the internet is no longer a luxury but a basic service that supports daily life.
Human rights organizations also raised concerns, warning that internet shutdowns are often used to silence dissent and hide abuses. They called on the government to respect digital rights even during times of political tension.
Museveni, however, maintained that security comes first. He argued that no country should allow its systems to be used to create instability. In his view, temporary inconvenience is acceptable if it helps maintain order.
The president’s remarks reflect a wider debate happening across Africa and the world. Many governments struggle to balance national security with digital freedom, especially during elections and protests.
Supporters of the government believe the shutdown was justified. They say social media can spread false information quickly, leading to violence and panic if not controlled.
On the other hand, critics argue that shutting down the internet affects millions of innocent users more than the few criminals it targets. They say better monitoring and law enforcement would be a fairer solution.
The road closure comparison sparked mixed reactions. Some people understood the logic, while others argued that roads are physical spaces, but the internet is a global communication tool that affects many rights at once.
For young Ugandans, the shutdown felt like a step backward in a digital age. Many rely on the internet for education, business, and connection with the outside world.
The BBC interview brought international attention to Uganda’s digital policies. It also highlighted the growing tension between governments and citizens over control of online spaces.
As internet access continues to shape modern life, decisions like shutdowns will remain controversial. They raise important questions about power, rights, and trust between leaders and the people they govern.
Museveni’s message was clear: the government believes it has the authority to act when it feels threatened. Whether Ugandans accept this explanation remains a subject of deep national debate.
In the end, the internet shutdown has become more than a technical issue. It has turned into a symbol of the ongoing struggle between security and freedom in Uganda’s political landscape.
