In a significant win for free expression, the Constitutional Court has struck down the entire Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act of 2022, ruling that Parliament passed it in violation of the Constitution and its own procedural rules. The law, introduced as a private member’s bill by outgoing Kampala Central MP Muhammad Nsereko and signed into force that September, aimed to tighten rules on social media, hate speech, misleading information, privacy, and recording without consent, with stiff penalties including disqualification from public office.
Critics, including human rights groups and activists, slammed it as a draconian tool to muzzle online dissent and target opposition voices under the guise of protection. Many Ugandans faced remand or conviction under its provisions. Lawyers and challengers argued successfully that the process breached constitutional standards, leading to the Act being declared null and void.
The ruling brings relief to those who feared broader crackdowns on digital speech. It restores some breathing room for online debate in a country where social media plays a huge role in politics and public discourse. While the original Computer Misuse Act remains in place, this decision removes the controversial 2022 additions and sets a precedent against rushed or flawed lawmaking. Details on the full judgment are still emerging, but the outcome marks a clear check on efforts to control internet content through legislation.