Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) letter penned on 9th December 2020 to the CEO Google Inc, notifying it to ensure that all broadcast content on YouTube and all its other applications “must strictly comply with Uganda’s Minimum Broadcasting Standards as enshrined in the Uganda Communications Act 2013”, has left many a Ugandan tongues wagging.
UCC has observed that on several channels on YouTube, self-seeking opportunists have continued, with resolve, to produce and disseminate extremist and anarchic messages to incite violence against sections of Ugandans on account of their tribal and political opinions.
The Commission elaborates that such falsehoods and inciting propaganda from the errant accounts may compromise security and cause economic sabotage.
It should be remembered that Uganda has over time been highly rated world over, as a hub for peace and stability that was ushered in by the National Resistance Movement under President Museveni.
“The Commission is in receipt of complaints from stakeholders including the Minister of Internal Affairs (as Chairperson of the National Security Council), the Uganda Police Force and has also observed that communication services, accounts, platforms and networks, including YouTube, are being used to publish, disseminate, and/or broadcast content that, contrary to Uganda Communications Act of 2013 and Regulation 8(2) of the Uganda Communications (Content Regulations 2019):” the letter reads in part.
“Wherefore, as the regulator of the communications sector in Uganda and in accordance with the Sections 5(1) (b), (j), (x), 6 and 45 of the Uganda Communications Act 2013, the Commission hereby implores Google to block access to the following accounts,” UCC states.
UCC outlines the accounts on You Tube that do not hold licenses and are inciting the public with baseless falsehoods as TMO Online, Lumbuye Fred, Trending Channel Ug, Uganda Yaffe, Uganda News Updates, Ghetto TV, Busesa Media Updates, Uganda Empya, Map Mediya TV, KK TV, Ekyooto TV, Namungo Media, JB Muwonge and Bobi Wine 2021 to mention but a few.
According to Section 27, no one will not broadcast in Uganda without a broadcasting license issued by UCC and a person who contravenes this commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine not exceeding twenty-five currency points or imprisonment not exceeding one year or both.
The presidential press secretary, Don Wanyama echoed UCC’s call to responsible journalism.
“Media engaging in responsible journalism has no restrictions. If you think you’ll use new media tools to whip up tribal emotions and advocate for violence, the state reserves all right to check you. Examples abound of untold loss occasioned by irresponsible press,” Wanyama said.
According to Wikipedia, journalism is guided by principles which among others include honesty, truth and fairness.
“It is unacceptable to report information known to be false, or report facts in a misleading way to give a wrong impression. Journalists must present facts with impartiality and neutrality, presenting other viewpoints and sides to a story where these exist. It is unacceptable to slant facts.
