Ugandan authorities cut internet access and limited mobile services across the country on Tuesday, two days before an election in which President Yoweri Museveni will stand for a contentious seventh term after four decades in power.

On Tuesday, the Uganda’s communications authority told all service providers to suspend internet access ahead of Thursday’s general election.

It justified the decision on the grounds of public safety to prevent “online misinformation, disinformation [and] electoral fraud… as well as preventing [the] incitement of violence”.

Earlier this month, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) described reports of an internet blackout as “mere rumours”, saying the commission’s role was to guarantee uninterrupted connectivity nationwide.

During the last election in 2021, which saw widespread protests with dozens killed, the internet was cut for at least a week.

Users of regular mobile data have already reported that they cannot access the internet, though some business facilities, such as large hotels, continue to enjoy wireless connectivity.

Voice calls and basic SMS services are expected to remain operational.