The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a stern directive to NTV Uganda to cease hosting programs in which the Founder of Sisimuka Uganda, Frank Gashumba airs his “disparaging” views about government and individuals leaders in government.
The directive dated October 10th also warned of revoking the Television’s broadcasting License in case they do not cooperate.
Gashumba, who is a known outspoken critique of the NRM Government, is often times hosted by majorly broadcast media houses, to pitch in on the debates and deliberate on the various news stories of the day.
The media regulatory body was particularly irked by want they termed as Mr Gashumba’s “profane and abusive language” when appearing on NTV’s evening news (Akawungezi).
UCC’s spokesperson Fred Otunnu in the directive says the Commission had received numerous complaints about Gashumba’s remarks, which he says are in breach of section 2 and Section 32 of the Uganda Communications Act (2013).
“The Commission therefore directs you to stop broadcasting of such programs with immediate effect,” NTV was ordered.
“Please take note that further repeated breach and violation of the law will result into commencement of cancelation or revocation of your License…Stand Warned!”
In response, Mr Gashumba said he was gutted by the directive, and wondered whether or not this wasn’t a direct attack on his fundamental rights. He also hinted on petitioning the constitutional court over the matter.
“The government has people like Ofwono Opondo, Col. Shaban Bantariza, and the Minister for Information (who are always on TVs, Radios and in papers on a daily basis) among other forms of government public relations. Does this make me stronger than the entire government media arms,” he said in a Facebook post.