We only acted according to a directive from UCC – MTN Uganda on suspension of social media

MTN Uganda has said they suspended access to social media platforms including Facebook, WhatsApp and twitter among others for their customers in Uganda as a response to a directive issued by the government through the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).

In a formal statement MTN Uganda states that they are under obligation to comply with directives as indicated in their operator’s license.

“MTN Uganda informs its esteemed customers and other stakeholders that National Telecommunication Operators in the country, have received a directive from Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to immediately suspend access and use, direct or otherwise of all social media platforms and online messaging applications over the network until further notice,” part of the statement reads.

“MTN Uganda has, in compliance with its National Telecommunications Operator License and in accordance with MTN’s group-wide Digital

Human Rights due diligence framework implemented the directive,” the statement continues.

MTN’s public statement comes just a few hours after Museveni bragged about the suspension of the social media platforms citing “arrogance” from Twitter and Facebook who without notification decided to block several pro-government accounts.

“There is no way somebody can come to play with our country to decide who is good or bad. We can’t tolerate that arrogance for anybody to decide what is good or bad for us,” he said.

Museveni also said that the social media channels ought to be used equitably by everyone, noting that the government has also retaliated by blocking Facebook.

“If you want to take sides against NRM, then you should not operate in Uganda. I am sorry about the inconvenience for those using the channel but the government has closed it (Facebook).”

The decision to block Social Media by the government of Uganda comes just a few hours to the country’s general elections that will see the head of state and members of the legislature voted into their respective positions.

MTN Uganda, Airtel, Africell and other Telecommunication companies have since blocked social media platforms including Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp among others.

It should be noted that the same was done during the last elections which were held in 2016 – but just like the case for the last events, Ugandans have forcefully accessed social media platforms using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs).

We await to see what Mr. Museveni says about this and we shall keep you updated.