Uganda moves to tighten control of social media

Uganda’s government has proposed a bill to tighten controls over social media. Country’s minister told AFP weeks after an enforced election day shutdown triggered widespread criticism.

“The bill is intended to regulate what goes on in the communication sector for the good of Ugandans and their security,” he said.

Uganda moves to tighten control of #socialmedia https://t.co/bG1qpzeLLq #Africa

— Vote4Africa (@vote4africa) March 11, 2016

The minister, Frank Tumwebaze said the aim of the bill is to amend the Uganda Communications Act 2013 by removing the requirement for the sector.

He said Uganda’s parliament mostly dominated by the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party would have to approve the bill removing parliamentary approval.

However, opposition politicians have criticised the proposal but Tumwebaze insisted the new regulations are “not that strict” and necessary to curb the “misuse” of social media with people posting irresponsible statements.

Government blocked social media sites such as Twitter and facebook during the elections in February citing unspecified “national security” concerns. The election saw president Yoweri Museveni winning the election with 61 percent of the votes.

20+ organisations petition UN & _AfricanUnion to condemn Uganda govt for social media shutdown during Feb election https://t.co/8wmIq6GViJ

— Peter Tatchell Fdn (@PT_Foundation) March 2, 2016

Political observers said the cards were heavily stacked against Museveni’s opponents, as the 71 year old tightened his grip on his party and country.

Political opponent and ex- prime minister, Amama Mbabazi has launched a petition challenging Museveni’s victory at the Supreme Court.