Bitchat Developer Challenges Uganda's Claims to Block Decentralized Messaging App

Bitchat Developer Rejection of Uganda's Claim

As Uganda approaches its national elections, the developer of the decentralized messaging app Bitchat has refuted claims from local authorities that they can successfully block the application. This development occurs against the backdrop of potential internet disruptions, which officials have warned about.

Key Takeaways:

Ugandan officials assert they can block Bitchat; however, app developers argue that its decentralized nature complicates any shutdown efforts.
Following fears of an internet blackout related to the elections, the app has seen a significant rise in downloads.
Bitchat's unique design allows it to function during internet outages.

On Monday, Nyombi Thembo, the executive director of the Uganda Communications Commission, stated that regulators possess the technical capability to disable Bitchat if necessary. His remarks come as the app experiences increased usage among Ugandans bracing for potential internet outages.

Bitchat Sees Surge in Popularity Amid Election Concerns

Last week, interest in Bitchat surged as opposition leader Bobi Wine encouraged supporters to download the app in preparation for possible internet shutdowns, stemming from historical precedent during politically sensitive times in Uganda.

Authorities in Uganda have previously limited online access during such periods. “We know how it can be made not to work,” Thembo commented, pointing out the country's considerable technical abilities. “Don’t be excited by Bitchat; it’s a small thing.”

However, one of Bitchat's developers, identified online as Calle, countered this perspective. Referring to internal data, Calle reported that over 400,000 Ugandans had downloaded the app. “You can’t stop Bitchat. You can’t stop us,” Calle stated on social media platform X, urging local developers to contribute to the open-source project. “Free and open source. Unstoppable. From the people for the people.”

Uganda has a history of internet restrictions during elections. In 2016, President Yoweri Museveni ordered a nationwide internet and social media blackout for security reasons. A similar four-day blackout occurred on election night in 2021. Given that Bitchat does not require accounts, phone numbers, or centralized infrastructure, it is viewed as a viable alternative should access to the broader internet be interrupted again.

Bitchat's Unique Technology Enables Connectivity Without the Internet

Bitchat, which began its beta phase in July, operates independently of traditional internet systems. The app employs Bluetooth-based mesh networks to transmit encrypted messages between nearby devices, thereby enabling communication even if mobile data or broadband services become unavailable.

According to its technical documentation, Bitchat does not utilize central servers and does not require user accounts, email addresses, or phone numbers.

The app's appeal is not confined to Uganda. During protests in Nepal last September, many users turned to Bitchat in light of a temporary social media ban. Soon after, Madagascar experienced a similar spike in downloads. In November, Bitchat briefly became one of the top download choices in Jamaica when Hurricane Melissa caused connectivity issues, leaving residents searching for reliable communication alternatives.