Ugandan government through Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has unveiled stringent measures aimed at controlling media content to curb misinformation and hate speech.
This development announced in a high level closed door stakeholders’ meeting held today at UCC headquarters was spearheaded by Nyombi Thembo who raised concerns over the rapid spread of inflammatory and sensational content capable of inciting violence.
The move has sparked a heated debate with some calling it a necessary intervention to protect national security while others see it as a veiled attempt to suppress press freedom.
Government argues that media houses and individuals have increasingly tested the limits of their freedom by publishing content that allegedly threatens national stability.
According to a document issued by the Ministry of State for Youth & Children Affairs, Minister Balaam Barugahara stated that some media platforms particularly online channels have become breeding grounds for sectarianism incitement of violence and even the formation of militant political groups.
“As we head into a politically charged season, the unchecked spread of misinformation poses a significant threat to national security,” the statement reads.
In response, security forces under the Umbrella National Security Council and the Inter-Agency Security Committee have been tasked with ensuring that media content aligns with Uganda’s legal framework including the Penal Code Act, UPDF Act and the Computer Misuse Act.
Among the proposed measures, media houses and social media platforms will now be required to ensure all published content is consistent, accurate and free of bias.
Media houses must adhere to strict compliance with national laws regulating media activity and actively remove any content deemed harmful to national security.
Another require is that all media owners, CEOs and key editors must undergo a mandatory cadre course at the National Leadership Institute in Kyankwanzi by June 30, 2025.
This training according to the government will remind media professionals of their “cardinal roles” in safeguarding national interests.
While the government insists that these measures are in the country’s best interest, some journalists argue that this is yet another attempt to tighten its grip on freedom of expression.
The timing, as Uganda gears up for the 2026 general elections has raised eyebrows. Media watchdogs fear that this will be a tool to silence dissenting voices and control public discourse.
Joel Ssenyonyi, the Leader of Opposition in Parliament has openly criticized the move, stating, “This is nothing but state-sponsored censorship. The government is using national security as an excuse to muzzle independent journalism.”
International organizations including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), have also weighed in, calling on the Ugandan government to reconsider policies that could stifle press freedom and democratic discourse.
With the implementation of these measures underway, media houses and online platforms are bracing for increased scrutiny.
The tension between press freedom and national security remains a contentious issue with Uganda standing at a crossroads either reinforcing its democratic credentials or slipping further into authoritarian media control.
