By Our Reporter
Desire Derekford Mugumisa, the Head of Corporate Affairs at Next Media Uganda, the parent company of NBS TV, has addressed the allegations about the suspension of journalist Zambaali Bulasio Mukasa.
Reports suggested that Bulasio had been suspended from his role at NBS TV after attending a political rally in Kawempe, where he publicly praised the NUP party and its leader, Bobi Wine.
This was allegedly linked to his ambition of running for the Nansana Municipality MP seat under the NUP ticket. The reports stated that Bulasio had been informed that he would no longer appear on Tuesday’s Barometer political show due to his involvement in partisan politics.
His absence was reportedly noticed when he was replaced by Kungu Adam. The claims also mentioned that Bulasio had previously received warnings for supporting Bobi Wine at King Saha’s concert and for an argument with David Kabanda, a coordinator for Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Buganda Region campaign.
Desire Mugumisa clarified Next Media’s position. He explained that the company has a clear policy for employees who decide to run for political office. “When any Next Media staff member chooses to run for political office, the company policy is clear: Next Media lets them be and supports them in that regard,” Mugumisa said.
He emphasized that both Zambaali Bulasio and Victoria Bagaya, who is also aiming for the Fort Portal City woman MP seat under the NRM ticket, have made their political intentions known. As a result, both are no longer on air.
Mugumisa also emphasized that Next Media Uganda, as an independent media house, follows a policy of non partisanship. He noted that for the company to maintain its mission of “Inform to Transform,” employees involved in partisan politics are expected to step away from active roles within the company. This policy applies to all staff members, not just Bulasio.
Mugumisa further addressed the allegation that Victoria Bagaya had not been treated the same as Bulasio. “It is false to claim that Victoria is still actively working at Next Media,” he said.
He reassured that the policy is applied consistently to all staff members who choose to enter politics. While employees are free to pursue their political goals, they must step away from their active roles within Next Media Uganda.
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