A news report has shown that authorities in Uganda have, in an unprecedented move, shut down the internet barely a few hours to the presidential and parliamentary elections slated for 14 January 2021. A letter from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), indicated that the internet blackout will be in force from '13 January 2021 and continue  until otherwise directed'. According to the report, the decision for the internet shut down was reached after a crunch security meeting. Authorities have justified the action with an explanation that social media poses a threat to peaceful elections because it offers a platform for misinformation and spreading fake news. However, activists and the opposition have condemned the act and have accused the government of trying to keep the world in the dark of events in Uganda which includes intimidating and harassing the opposition and curtailing the freedom of expression and freedom of the press.