Uganda bans livestreaming of 'unlawful processions' ahead of vote

Ugandan authorities announced on Jan. 5 a ban on livestreams and broadcasts of "riots, unlawful processions or violent incidents" ahead of the election in which President Yoweri Museveni is seeking to extend his 40-year rule.

Uganda's government announced on Jan. 5 a ban on livestreaming and broadcasts of "riots, unlawful processions or violent incidents." The restriction was announced in the run-up to a national election where President Yoweri Museveni is seeking to extend his 40-year rule. The statement framed the limit as applying to live and broadcast coverage of those types of events. The report did not provide further detail on enforcement or penalties. Key points: - Announcement date: Jan. 5, 2026. - Scope: livestreams and broadcasts of "riots, unlawful processions or violent incidents." - Context: issued ahead of the national election in which President Yoweri Museveni seeks to extend his 40-year rule. - The report did not include details on enforcement, penalties or duration. Summary: The announcement restricts live and broadcast coverage of specified public disturbances in the run-up to the vote. Undetermined at this time.