Ugandan politician Bobi Wine urges constituents to download Jack Dorsey’s Bitchat messaging service ahead of the country’s election, alleging the ruling party may cut off communication services. Past elections saw internet and social media blackouts. The government claims these measures are for national security and public order.

The government of Uganda is now restricting the importation of Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet equipment. Dorsey’s Bitchat app, launched in July, offers encrypted, internet-free communication through Bluetooth mesh networks, with decentralization as a key feature. Wine believes Bitchat will aid in quick communication and sharing vital information during the election.

Google search trends show a surge in interest in “Bitchat” in Uganda, with related queries like “Bitchat apk download” spiking in activity. Bitchat has been downloaded over 936,000 times since its launch, with significant recent downloads. Similar spikes in Bitchat downloads were seen in Madagascar, Nepal, and Indonesia during periods of unrest.

Read more at Cointelegraph: Uganda’s Bobi Wine Promotes Bitchat Amid Fears of Internet Blackout