Uganda plans social network ban may 4th 2011

The Ugandan government is moving to shut down social media networks, including Facebook and Twitter, reports Computer World Kenya.The closure of social media networks in Uganda comes only a month after the Cameroonian government banned social media.
click here to read the article

In Swaziland, social media networks were also banned early this month in a bid by the government to quell demonstrations over political reforms and the rising cost of living.
Press freedom organisation Reporters Without Borders condemned Uganda's Communications Commission for ordering the ban of social networking sites, states IT News Africa.
The journalists' rights group highlights the need for governments to take a hands-off approach to the Internet and freedom of speech.
According to the Uganda commission, the shutting down of sites was in an effort to “reduce the threat of violence.” It came after activists announced plans for protests in anger of higher prices and corruption in the country.
Despite the government's calls for a blackout, some operators refused to abide by the ruling and online activity went on as usual.
According to The Daily Monitor, the US government called on Uganda president Yoweri Museveni to respect the right of all citizens to peacefully express their views, as enshrined by Uganda's constitution.
The US government also condemned the escalation of violence in Kampala in the wake of previous demonstrations and arrests of opposition leaders, but adds protestors should refrain from violence and obey the law