The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, has warned that artificial intelligence could pose a serious challenge to Uganda’s elections if abused by unscrupulous actors.
In a statement issued ahead of the January 15 general elections, Dr. Zawedde said technological advancements, while beneficial, also present new risks to democracy, particularly through the spread of misleading and fabricated content.
As Chairperson of the National Task Force on Artificial Intelligence, she explained that government efforts are focused on promoting safe and lawful use of AI across sectors. She added that AI has the potential to strengthen democratic participation by improving access to information and enhancing public dialogue.
However, she noted that during election periods, the same tools can be misused to spread falsehoods, provoke division, and confuse voters.
“AI should support informed decision-making, not compromise it,” she said, warning that manipulation of digital content threatens public trust in electoral outcomes.
Dr. Zawedde advised citizens to approach online political information with caution, particularly content that appears exaggerated or emotionally charged. She stressed the importance of verifying sources before sharing information.
She also clarified that even in the absence of a standalone AI law, Uganda’s current legal framework provides for punishment of digital and electoral offences.
“Breaking the law online is no different from doing so offline,” she said, adding that those who misuse AI to influence elections will face legal action.
She called for collective responsibility from political leaders, media professionals, and voters to ensure technology is used ethically during the election season.
If you want:
