You can’t force the government to open Facebook,” says ICT Minister Dr. Chris Baryomunsi

Kampala, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | The government has stood firm in its decision to maintain the Facebook suspension, asserting that it will not be compelled to reopen the social media platform. In a telephone interview on Wednesday, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, responded to threats from traders associated with the Urban Smart Traders Association (USTA), who are considering legal action against the government for blocking Facebook. The minister explained that the government would reopen Facebook when it deemed appropriate, as discussions with the social media company had yet to yield agreed-upon outcomes.

During a press briefing in Kampala, members of the USTA presented an ultimatum, demanding that the government reopen Facebook within 14 days, or they would take legal action. Badru Kabogoza Nsamu, the chairperson of USTA, emphasized the significant role Facebook played in their businesses, stressing the financial losses, customer base erosion, and the negative impact on their trade. He underscored that Facebook served as a business platform, not just a political one.

Luyimbazi Nalukoola, the lawyer representing the aggrieved party, contended that the government’s actions amounted to a violation of fundamental human rights and freedoms. He disclosed their intention to initiate legal proceedings if Facebook remained blocked beyond the 14-day notice, demanding compensation of UGX 200 billion for the suffering endured by their members.

Nalukoola highlighted the pivotal role of Facebook as a primary online platform linking Ugandan products and services to the global digital market. He pointed out that the ongoing closure posed a threat to the online economic network, which could otherwise promote imports, exports, tourism, sports, music, and art to the world. He emphasized the importance of technology, particularly e-commerce, in today’s world economies.

As background, in 2021, the government suspended Facebook in the lead-up to the general elections, citing concerns about hate speech, misinformation, and divisive content. Many Ugandans now access the platform through Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or have shifted to alternative platforms. Additionally, Facebook was accused of deleting accounts belonging to numerous supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), suspected of being fake.