Ndindi Nyoro warns against internet shutdowns during East African elections
By Nancy Marende, January 14, 2026Kiharu Member of Parliament (MP) Ndindi Nyoro has cautioned governments in the East African region against shutting down the internet during election periods, warning that such actions undermine democracy and limit fair political competition.
Speaking during an interview with a local TV station on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, the Kiharu MP described internet and communication shutdowns as a worrying trend that threatens the very foundation of democratic systems.
“What I see is a worrying trend because the basis of our democracy is to bring forth the best. For democracy to work, all the people have to accept that you cannot be in the race alone. If you are in the race alone, then that’s not democracy,” Nyoro said.
Nyoro noted that in the modern era, access to communication is a critical component of free and fair elections, arguing that cutting people off from information during elections suppresses participation and weakens accountability.
“The fact that we can see in this age and era that because of elections, people are cut off from communication is a very worrying trend for our region,” he said.
The MP specifically expressed hope that authorities in Uganda would reconsider decisions to restrict communication during election periods and instead allow a more open and competitive political environment.
“I hope that the regime in Uganda will consider that decision and also give democracy a robust arena,” Nyoro added.
Drawing lessons from Kenya’s political history, Ndindi Nyoro cited former President Mwai Kibaki as an example of leadership that embraced competition for the greater good of the nation.
“I always believe that when you give the best leader the mantle, you benefit by paving way for them. When President Kibaki made Kenya better, he didn’t do it just for himself but also for the people he was competing with,” he added.
Nyoro emphasized that democracy should be allowed to function freely so it can bring forward the best ideas and leaders, ultimately driving progress across East African countries.
“Democracy should be given an opportunity to bring forth the best minds so that our countries can be progressive,” Nyoro said.