Nairobi Senator Edwin Sifuna has warned against the erosion
of democratic norms in the region, citing recent developments in Uganda and
earlier events in Tanzania as a cautionary signal for African democracies.
In a statement responding to Uganda’s decision to shut down
the internet, Sifuna said such actions undermine fundamental freedoms and
threaten the integrity of political processes.
He argued that restrictions on digital access during
politically sensitive moments weaken public trust and limit citizens’ ability
to participate meaningfully in governance.
“What we saw in Tanzania and what is unfolding in Uganda is
the reason we must insist on the centrality of our values in all political
discourse,” Sifuna said, linking the internet shutdown to a broader pattern of
democratic backsliding in parts of the region.
The senator emphasised that democracy is anchored not only
in elections but also in the protection of basic rights and freedoms, including
access to information.
He noted that the internet has become a critical platform
for civic engagement, political organising and accountability, particularly
among young people.
Sifuna said governments must ensure that security concerns
or political interests do not override constitutional principles and
internationally recognised standards.
“Democracy, Human Rights, Freedom, Rule of Law, Social
Justice and Equality,” he said, “everything else must be done within the
framework and in accordance with these values.”
His remarks come amid criticism from civil society
organisations and rights groups over Uganda’s internet shutdown, which they
argue restricts freedom of expression and the media’s ability to operate
independently.
Similar measures in Tanzania in past electoral cycles have
also drawn condemnation from regional and international observers.
Sifuna cautioned that normalising such actions sets a
dangerous precedent for the region, where democratic institutions in several
countries remain fragile.
He said political leaders have a responsibility to safeguard
civic space rather than constrict it during critical moments.
The Nairobi senator urged Kenyan leaders and citizens to
remain vigilant in defending constitutional values, warning that democratic
erosion often begins with small but deliberate restrictions on freedoms.
He added that regional solidarity is essential in promoting
accountable governance and resisting practices that weaken democracy.
On Tuesday, the Uganda Communication Commission ordered a '
temporary' shutdown of internet until
further notice.
The shutdown orders came two days before the Uganda General
Elections set for Thursday, January 15, 2026
According to the UCC, the directive follows a recommendation
from the Inter-Agency Security Committee, which cited the need to mitigate the
rapid spread of online misinformation, disinformation, and other
election-related risks.
The regulator said the measure is also intended to prevent
content that could incite violence or affect public confidence during the
elections.
“The suspension is effective 13th January 2026, at 1800hrs
and will remain in force until a restoration notice is issued by UCC. During
this period, all non-essential public internet traffic must be blocked,” stated
UCC Executive Director Thembo Nyombi.
The notice defined public internet traffic to include social
media platforms, personal email services, web browsing, video streaming, and
messaging applications.
The suspension will cover Mobile Broadband (Cellular), Fibre
Optic, Leased Lines, Fixed Wireless Access, Microwave Radio Links, and
Satellite Internet Services.
