BitChat has become the most downloaded app in Uganda as state officials confirmed that internet access has been cut off and will remain inaccessible during presidential elections starting on Thursday.
This is the third consecutive election in which Ugandan authorities have cut off internet access, with officials saying the move is necessary to reduce the spread of misinformation online.
However, critics argue that shutting down the Internet suppresses election-related information and could potentially manipulate the outcome.
The internet shutdown took effect at 6:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday, Nyombi Thembo, executive director of the Uganda Communications Commission, said in a statement on Twitter.
BitChat, an internet-free encrypted messaging app powered by Bluetooth mesh network, currently tops the app charts. Apple App Store and Google Play in Uganda.
Other top applications include virtual private network apps, highlighting that access to information remains one of the most urgent needs as Uganda approaches Thursday’s vote.
Last week, Thembo Said Internet will not be cut.
“Why would you use BitChat when there is internet, there will be internet, use the internet,” he said last week. He also claimed that his team has the technical capability to shut down BitChat.
data A video shared by Calle on January 5 revealed that more than 400,000 Ugandans had downloaded the app, with the number now likely far higher.
Uganda has cut internet access three times now
During the 2016 election, longtime Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni imposed a nationwide ban on internet and social media use, citing security concerns.
A similar situation emerged in 2021, when a four-day internet blackout began on election night.
BitChat is being used in every corner of the world
BitChat has since become a vital solution for people in countries where Internet access has been disrupted – whether due to government interference or natural disasters.
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In September, about 50,000 Nepali users turned to the app to avoid a temporary social media ban due to anti-corruption protests, while a similar situation emerged in Madagascar about three weeks later.
Many Jamaicans also turned to the app when Hurricane Melissa struck in November, with winds of up to 185 mph hitting the Caribbean region and knocking out regular communication channels.
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