However, Sarah Kihika, a Human Rights Activists wants government to seek a judicial review before ordering the social media shut down. According to Kihika, court should be able to weigh in the evidence of the eminent threat to national security and need to shut down any form of media before violating the rights to freedom of expression and information.
Nicholas Opiyo, a Human Rights lawyer accuses Government of hiding behind national security to violate the rights to freedom of expression and information. He says the arbitrary closure of the media is unfair to millions of social media users across the country.
Speaking at the meeting convened by Chapter Four at its offices in Kololo on Monday, Michael Niyitegeka, an IT consultant said Government should come up with better ways to regulate social media other than blocking the entire platform and cut out Uganda from the rest of the world.
He says there are software applications that can enable Government truck individual users and restrict the activities of those deemed to be a threat. Timothy Kalyegira, a media practitioner called for self-regulation by social media users, adding that many people post irrational issues.
Fred Otunnu, the Director Corporate Affairs Uganda Communications Commissions, which mandated to regulate and control communications, says although the right to use media is essential, there is need for regulation. He defended the recent social media shut down, saying they acted on security warnings.
Christine Nanding, the Deputy Director Human Rights and Legal Services in Uganda Police, advised those offended by Governments actions to seek legal redress instead of inciting violence.