Bitchat Developer Challenges Uganda's Threat to Block App

Summary: Amid Uganda's threats to block the decentralized messaging app Bitchat as national elections approach, a developer has asserted that the app's unique attributes make it resistant to censorship. The app's popularity surged, particularly after opposition leader Bobi Wine encouraged its use due to concerns over potential internet shutdowns during the elections.

Key Takeaways

Uganda's Communications Commission claims it can disable Bitchat, but a developer argues otherwise.
Over 400,000 Ugandans have downloaded Bitchat, which uses Bluetooth mesh technology to communicate without traditional internet.
Past events show Uganda's history of restricting online access during elections.
Bitchat's decentralized nature allows communication even when conventional internet is unavailable, making it difficult to censor.

Uganda clashes with Jack Dorsey’s Bitchat over election blackout fears

Uganda's Claims and Developer Responses

A developer associated with the decentralized messaging app Bitchat has countered the assertions made by Ugandan officials regarding the app's potential ban, especially as the nation gears up for national elections. Nyombi Thembo, the executive director of the Uganda Communications Commission, claimed on Monday that regulators are technologically capable of disabling Bitchat if required.

“We know how it can be made not to work,” Thembo stated, emphasizing the country's substantial technical knowledge. “Don’t be excited by Bitchat, it’s a small thing.”

However, Calle, the developer linked to Bitchat, dismissed this viewpoint. Referencing internal statistics, Calle noted that the app has been downloaded by over 400,000 Ugandans. “You can’t stop Bitchat. You can’t stop us,” Calle declared on social media platform X, urging local developers to engage with open-source projects. “Free and open source. Unstoppable. From the people for the people.”

Rising Interest Amid Election Concerns

The growing interest in Bitchat coincided with opposition leader Bobi Wine's call to action, prompting supporters to install the app as a precaution against potential internet shutdowns during the elections. Uganda has a history of imposing online restrictions during politically sensitive times. For instance, President Yoweri Museveni mandated a nationwide internet and social media blackout in 2016, citing security issues, and a similar shutdown occurred on election night in 2021.

How Bitchat Works

Launched in beta testing in July, Bitchat operates independently of traditional internet infrastructure. The app uses Bluetooth-based mesh networks to relay encrypted messages between nearby devices, enabling communication even when mobile data or broadband is unavailable. According to its technical documentation, Bitchat does not rely on central servers and doesn’t require phone numbers, email addresses, or user accounts to function.

Broader Impact

Bitchat's reach extends beyond Uganda. During the protests in Nepal last September, many users turned to Bitchat following a temporary social media ban. Similarly, Madagascar experienced a spike in downloads shortly after. In November, the app became one of the most downloaded tools in Jamaica during Hurricane Melissa, as connectivity issues left residents seeking alternative ways to communicate.

This scenario exemplifies not only the innovative technology behind Bitchat but also highlights the increasing reliance on decentralized communication tools in politically tumultuous environments.