Uganda's Internet Blackout: A Familiar Playbook for 'Democracy'
Al Jazeera dutifully reports that Uganda is facing 'mounting calls' to end an internet blackout before upcoming elections, with Amnesty International decrying 'massive repression.' This concern for digital freedom is indeed laudable. However, one might notice a striking similarity in reactions (or lack thereof) when such digital repression serves 'strategic interests.' Remember when Congress,
fresh off a multi-million-dollar haul from tech and defense lobbyists, passed legislation that could be interpreted to sanction similar communications restrictions globally? It appears outrage over internet blackouts is highly dependent on whether the infringing government is a 'strategic partner' or simply an independent actor. While Uganda faces condemnation, critics note the US isn't deploying
similar pressure (or sanctions) on nations like Israel, which has routinely cut off communications to Gaza, particularly during military operations. The silence suggests a profound hypocrisy: 'internet freedom' is a noble cause, until it inconveniences an ally or challenges a narrative. (Perhaps Uganda should try selling some F-35s to Washington to secure its connectivity.)