Uganda’s Opposition Turns to Decentralized Tech Amid Election Fears
Uganda's opposition leader Bobi Wine is urging supporters to adopt Jack Dorsey's decentralized messaging app Bitchat ahead of the 2026 presidential election. The MOVE comes as a precaution against potential internet shutdowns like those during the 2016 and 2021 elections, which disproportionately hampered opposition coordination.
Authorities have historically justified blackouts as security measures, but critics argue they primarily suppress dissent. With Starlink access now facing restrictions, decentralized solutions gain urgency for campaign organization and election monitoring.