UCC Dismisses Viral Internet Shutdown Notice Ahead of January 2026 Elections

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has dismissed as fake a viral notice circulating on social media claiming that internet and mobile money services will be suspended nationwide on January 8, 2026, ahead of the general elections.

The false notice urged Ugandans to withdraw money from banks and mobile money platforms, warning of potential disruptions once the internet is allegedly switched off.

“All mobile money and Airtel Money services will be switched off nationwide starting 8th January 2026,” the notice falsely claimed.

However, UCC has strongly denied issuing such a directive.

In a statement shared via its official X (formerly Twitter) account, the communications regulator clarified that the notice did not originate from the Commission and should be completely ignored.

“The Uganda Communications Commission alerts the public that a circulating notice is fake and was not issued by the Commission,” UCC said.

“UCC only distributes official updates via its verified communication channels.”

The Commission further urged members of the public to rely solely on official UCC platforms for accurate and verified information, warning that misinformation could cause unnecessary panic, especially during sensitive electoral periods.

The viral claim sparked widespread concern among Ugandans, particularly users of mobile money services, which play a critical role in daily transactions across the country.

As the 2026 general elections draw closer, authorities continue to caution the public against misinformation and the spread of unverified content on social media.