KAMPALA – Uganda Communications Communication (UCC) has accused Ugandan radio and televisions of relaying live broadcasts they say “are inciting the public, discriminating, stirring up hatred, promoting a culture of violence among viewers and are likely to create public insecurity and violence.”
UCC directed broadcasters to stop and refrain from broadcasting live feeds which breach minimum broadcasting standards as laid out in the Uganda Communications Act 2013. They warned of possible suspension and revocation of licenses.
The statement came out on a day when dramatic scenes from inside and outside parliament were relayed live by most of Uganda’s radio and TV broadcasters.
The reaction by many on social media to the UCC directive was that of shock, but Minister of ICT and National Guidance Frank Tumwebaze took to twitter to defend the regulator.
“Violence, Fights, punches whether from MPs or judges offend public morality. MPs made that law. So blame their conduct not UCC” said Tumwebaze, adding that “violent scenes fights offend minimum broadcasting standards. UCC is obligated by law to enforce these standards and protect consumers.”
On Tuesday, Parliament was adjourned prematurely for a second time as Members of Parliament argued on how to proceed in relation to a private members motion to change the constitution to among many things remove the age limit that exists on the presidency.
(Read the full UCC statement AND Communications Act below)
