By Our Reporter
A major legal battle is brewing between Uganda Law Society (ULS) President Mr. Isaac K. Ssemakadde and Next Media Group, following an investigative broadcast titled “Bang the Gold: Radical New Gold Scam” that aired on May 5, 2025.
In a strongly worded letter dated May 6, Ssemakadde—through his legal representatives, Mukiibi & Kyeyune Advocates—issued a notice of intention to sue the media conglomerate for what he called “false, defamatory, and damaging” allegations made against him in the investigative report. The letter, addressed to Next Media Group CEO Kin Kariisa, accuses the broadcaster of airing content that falsely implicates Ssemakadde in conspiracy and fraud, ”without offering any substantiating evidence”.
The legal notice cites serious harm caused to the ULS President, including reputational damage, emotional distress, and financial loss. Among the seven core grievances outlined are the publication of unverified claims, unauthorized use of copyrighted material, interception of private communications, and the illicit disclosure of confidential bank and police documents.
“The #NBSInvestigates report contains false, defamatory, and damaging allegations against our client… causing significant reputational harm, emotional distress, and financial loss,” the letter states.
In a list of demands aimed at resolving the matter amicably within 14 days, Ssemakadde’s legal team is seeking:
- A full retraction and unqualified public apology to be broadcast during prime time across all Next Media platforms,
- Payment of USD 3 million (approx. UGX 11.4 billion) in compensatory and punitive damages,
- Immediate cessation of further publication or distribution of the report,
- And preservation of all related evidence, including internal communications, footage, and source material.
Failure to meet these demands, the lawyers warned, would prompt the initiation of legal proceedings without further notice.
In a swift and bold response, Next Media Group, through its Legal and Regulatory Compliance Chief Mr. Obadia Ismail, not only acknowledged receipt of the legal threat—but welcomed it.
“Please sue,” Ismail wrote in a terse but pointed reply, invoking a Latin maxim: “Actori incumbit onus probandi”— the burden of proof lies on the accuser. The response further noted that each party is “dominus litis”—master of their own case—and whether success follows is another matter entirely.”
This showdown between one of Uganda’s most outspoken legal minds and a dominant force in the country’s media landscape has ignited public debate on press freedom, accountability, and the ethical boundaries of investigative journalism.
As the 14-day window ticks down, all eyes are now on both parties: Will they head to court in what promises to be a high-stakes legal clash—or find common ground before the matter escalates? Watch the space…..!
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