By Our Reporter
In a swift and coordinated move, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has summoned top media executives for an urgent meeting on Thursday, February 27, 2025, to address concerns over alleged hate speech and sensational reporting. This follows a recent announcement by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who revealed that his office would conduct an audit of all media houses in compliance with directives from the Commander-in-Chief.
Gen. Muhoozi, the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, took to social media to declare that all media heads would be required to report to his office, signaling a major shift in the government’s approach to media regulation. “My office will soon begin an audit on ALL media houses. These are the instructions of the Commander-in-Chief. All of you will report to my office from now!” he posted.
In line with this directive, UCC’s Executive Director, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, has formally invited CEOs of all major broadcasting entities, including members of the National Association of Broadcasters (NAB), the Rural Broadcasters Association (RUBA), and the Uganda Media Owners Association (UMOA), among others. The meeting, set to take place at UCC House in Bugolobi, will also be attended by representatives from the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, government officials, and security agencies.
In their letter, UCC inked, “The Uganda Communications Commission (the Commission) has noted with concern the continued broadcast on different media platforms (radio, television, and online) of content that contains hate speech and is creating disharmony amongst the public. Such content is increasingly sensational, spreading hatred, false information, capable of inciting violence amongst the population.”
“Similar concerns have been raised by the National Security Council,” further reads UCC letter.
While the UCC’s invitation cites allegations of growing concerns over hate speech and incitement to violence in media content, the timing of this move suggests it is a direct response to Gen. Muhoozi’s orders. His plan to introduce a cadre course for media executives, which he insists will be mandatory, has further fueled speculation about tighter government control over the press. “We are organizing a Cadre course for all MDs of media houses. It will be a good one,” Muhoozi announced, warning that failure to attend could lead to licensing consequences.
This development has sparked debates among journalists, media freedom advocates, and civil society organizations. While some view it as an attempt to enforce professionalism and national unity, others see it as a potential crackdown on press freedom. The media sector now finds itself at a critical juncture, navigating between government directives and the principles of independent journalism.
As Thursday’s meeting approaches, all eyes will be on UCC and the government’s next steps in reshaping Uganda’s media landscape. Will this be a move towards responsible journalism, or a step closer to state-controlled media? The outcome of this high-level engagement will likely set the tone for the future of press freedom in Uganda.
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