Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has announced that all social media platforms will be fully restored in Uganda today, marking the end of restrictions that were imposed during the electoral period.
In a statement shared on X, Muhoozi thanked Ugandans for their patience and cooperation throughout the election season.
“We are releasing all social media today. I thank all the great people of Uganda for their support and co-operation throughout this electoral season. You are truly the greatest people on earth and you give us all the courage to serve. God bless you all,” Muhoozi wrote.
Social media platforms, including TikTok, X, WhatsApp, and YouTube, had been restricted during the election period, with authorities citing national security concerns, the spread of misinformation, and the need to maintain public order.
The restrictions were imposed on January 13th as one day to the 15th January which was the voting day as tensions rose between government and opposition supporters.
For weeks, many Ugandans relied on Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to access the platforms, while businesses, journalists, and content creators complained of economic losses and limited access to information.
Muhoozi’s announcement has been welcomed by many users online, who say the restoration will revive digital communication, online business, and free expression.