Shutting down the internet days before elections represents a blatant assault on press freedom and democracy. Security forces have brutally attacked journalists covering opposition rallies, using tear gas, stun guns and physical violence while authorities suspend human rights organizations documenting these abuses. This coordinated crackdown aims to silence independent reporting and prevent citizens from witnessing electoral fraud during a crucial democratic moment.
Temporary internet restrictions protect election integrity from verified external cyber-attacks targeting Uganda's democratic process. When hackers actively attempt to compromise voter registers and results transmission systems, the state has a duty to prevent the silent theft of citizens' will. Doing nothing in the face of cyber-interference isn't neutrality — it's negligence that risks a stolen election whose consequences would linger for years.
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