• Starlink equipment imports now require military authorization

• Measure applies immediately despite lack of official justification

• Decision comes weeks before Uganda’s presidential election

Uganda has moved to restrict imports of Starlink equipment, according to a Dec 19 internal memo from the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA). The directive states that any import of Starlink technology, communication equipment, or related components must now be accompanied by written authorization from the chief of defense forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Yoweri Museveni.

The document, signed by Asadu Kigozi Kisitu from the customs enforcement department, takes immediate effect and applies to all customs clearance services. The memo surfaced through a leak and began circulating on social media from December 22. The URA later confirmed its authenticity through a spokesperson, while downplaying the scope of the measure and noting that many countries impose strict controls on sensitive communications technologies. No official reason has been given for the restriction.

Starlink does not yet hold a license to operate legally in Uganda, although many users have imported and used the equipment informally. The move comes several months after President Museveni met Starlink representatives in April, during which he publicly welcomed the technology’s potential to improve internet access in underserved rural areas. The U.S. company has indicated plans to establish an official presence in Uganda next year.

The timing of the decision has drawn attention, as it comes less than three weeks before the January 15 presidential election, in which Museveni is seeking another term, notably against opposition leader Bobi Wine. During the 2021 election, authorities imposed a near-total internet shutdown for several days. Bobi Wine, who lost that vote, alleged fraud, claims the government denied.

Against this backdrop, opposition figures see the Starlink restrictions as politically motivated. Writing on social media platform X, Bobi Wine described the measure as “ridiculous,” arguing that it reflects government fears over uncontrolled internet access during the electoral process.

Olivier de Souza