Uganda’s opposition leader Bobi Wine has urged supporters to adopt a decentralized messaging app ahead of the country’s next presidential election, warning that authorities may once again restrict access to the internet and social media during the vote.
Key Takeaways:
- Uganda’s opposition warns of internet shutdowns ahead of the 2026 election.
- Past blackouts have disproportionately disrupted opposition activity.
- Planned limits on Starlink have raised fresh digital access concerns.
In a post on X this week, Wine encouraged Ugandans to download Bitchat, a peer-to-peer messaging service launched by Jack Dorsey, arguing that the tool could help citizens stay connected if communication channels are shut down.
Uganda’s presidential election is scheduled for Jan. 15, 2026.
Uganda’s Past Internet Blackouts Hit Opposition Hard, Rights Group Says
Wine pointed to previous elections as evidence of what may lie ahead. During the 2016 polls, and again in 2021, the government imposed nationwide internet and social media blackouts, citing security concerns.
According to the Pan-African Human Rights Defenders Network, those measures disproportionately affected opposition groups that relied on digital platforms to coordinate campaigns, monitor voting and mobilize protests.
“They switch off the internet in order to block communication and ensure that citizens do not organise, verify their election results and demand accountability,” Wine wrote, alleging that such tactics are used to conceal election irregularities.
The government has consistently denied accusations of manipulation, saying restrictions are imposed to preserve public order.
Uganda has been led by President Yoweri Museveni since 1986. Wine, who heads the National Unity Platform, ran against Museveni in the 2021 election but lost.
He later claimed the vote was rigged, an allegation rejected by the president and electoral authorities.
Concerns over digital access have resurfaced in recent weeks following reports that authorities plan to restrict the import of Starlink satellite internet equipment.
Reuters cited a government memo outlining the move, which would limit access to an alternative high-speed internet option in rural and underserved areas. Officials have not publicly detailed the scope of the restrictions.
Bitchat Uses Bluetooth Mesh to Enable Internet-Free Encrypted Messaging
Bitchat, which entered beta testing in July, operates without traditional internet infrastructure.
The app uses Bluetooth-based mesh networks to relay encrypted messages between nearby devices, allowing communication even when mobile data or broadband services are unavailable.
According to its technical documentation, the system has no central servers and does not require phone numbers, email addresses or user accounts.
Wine said the technology could allow information to spread quickly among large groups, helping supporters share updates and coordinate activities during the election period.
Interest in the app appears to be rising. Google Trends data shows searches for “Bitchat” in Uganda jumped sharply this week, with related queries such as “how to use Bitchat” flagged as breakout topics.
Download data also indicates increased activity in recent days.
Similar surges in Bitchat adoption have previously been recorded during periods of unrest in countries including Madagascar, Nepal and Indonesia.
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