Uganda’s government has banned media outlets from live broadcasting or streaming riots, violent incidents, or unlawful processions ahead of the general elections on January 15, 2026.

The Ministry of Information, Communication and Technology announced the measure on Monday, January 5, 2026, saying it aims to prevent the escalation of tensions and the spread of panic during the election period.

“Our Executive Director (@UCC_ED) spoke with clarity, stating that elections demand responsible journalism and that the media should not be a tool for political abuse, violence, or lawlessness,” the ministry said.

“He added that UCC will not tolerate: – Live coverage of riots or violent incidents – Incitement or hate speech, both on air and online – Unofficial declaration of election results, which is the @UgandaEC‘s mandate. These illegal acts endanger lives and can destabilize the nation,” the statement said.

Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director Nyombi Thembo supported the announcement. He said elections require responsible journalism and that the media should not become a tool for political abuse, violence, or lawlessness.

Thembo added that UCC will not tolerate live coverage of riots, incitement, hate speech, or the unofficial declaration of results, which remains the mandate of the Electoral Commission.

Peaceful elections promised

The announcements come as security officials promise peaceful polls. Inspector General of Police Abbas Byakagaba has repeatedly pledged that police will maintain order and ensure a secure environment. He urged Ugandans to act as ambassadors of peace and to follow the law.

“We’re giving you full assurance that nobody is going to disturb the peace in this country. Elections are going to take place in the utmost good environment. Let us tell our people to maintain peace, to ensure that they are law-abiding, and we are looking forward to a very peaceful election,” he said on Monday.

President Yoweri Museveni, 81, is seeking another term after ruling since 1986. He faces main challenger Bobi Wine, the 43-year-old leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP). Ahead of the last election in 2021, several people died in crackdowns that Wine’s supporters described as brutal, though Museveni denied the claims.

Rights groups have raised concerns about potential abuses. On the same day as the media announcement, Amnesty International reported that security forces have carried out a “brutal campaign of repression” against NUP supporters. The group documented arbitrary arrests, beatings, and torture.

Opposition figures warn of mass detentions and disappearances. Another opposition leader, Kizza Besigye, remains in prison on treason charges he denies.