By TV10 Editorial Team
TV10 Gano Mazima, one of Uganda’s most popular online news publications and YouTube channels, is set to challenge the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) over its decision to revoke its operational license.
According to documents obtained, TV10 received a letter from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) on January 8, 2025, with reference number LA/584/216, citing allegations of broadcasting hate speech, defamatory, malicious, and misleading information.
TV10 Gano Mazima, through its lawyers Kaganzi and Co Advocates, is pushing back against the Uganda Communications Commission’s (UCC) allegations of hate speech, defamation, and malicious content. The media outlet’s Chief of Strategies, Dean Lubowa Saava, claims that these allegations are already being addressed in court, with some matters even having court orders issued.
This development comes after the UCC reportedly stated that TMC Media, trading as TV10 Gano Mazima, is not authorized to provide online data communication services in Uganda, effectively deeming their operations illegal. However, Lubowa Saava’s statement suggests that the media outlet is taking a strong stance against the UCC’s actions.
TV10’s lawyers argue that the UCC’s parallel investigation into these allegations would constitute an affront to the judiciary, as the same matters are already sub judice. This would amount to an abuse of the court process or contempt of court, given that court orders have already been issued in relation to these complaints.
The matter of Alex Lutaaya Mukomazi vs. Dean Lubowa Saava and TV10 Gano Mazima (Civil Suit No. 574 of 2024) is one of the cases currently before the courts, which the UCC’s actions may be seen as interfering with.
It is worth noting that the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and its Executive Director, Mr. George William Nyombi Thembo, have recently faced criticism for allegedly failing to regulate local TV channels, radio stations, and media presenters that broadcast obscene and X-rated content.
Interestingly, the UCC swiftly sprang into action when they banned music by local artists Gravity Omutujju and Lil Pazo from being aired on TV and radio, citing allegations of obscenity and vulgarity.
Despite TV10 and its management adhering to the minimum broadcasting standards, it is perplexing to see the UCC’s hasty efforts to silence the station. This move appears to be motivated by attempts to shield certain well-connected individuals, who have allegedly petitioned the UCC to prevent TV10 from exposing their corrupt activities and abuse of office.
President Museveni has reaffirmed his commitment to fighting corruption in Uganda, promising to take decisive action against those involved in corrupt activities. He emphasized that corruption is a major obstacle to the country’s development and vowed to “crush” those who engage in it.
Museveni Vows to Fight Corruption
The President identified key individuals, including Permanent Secretaries, Chief Administrative Officers, Town Clerks, and Gombolola Chiefs, as the main perpetrators of corruption in Uganda. He also acknowledged that corruption is not only limited to government officials but also involves some politicians and business leaders.
Museveni’s stance on corruption has been welcomed by many Ugandans, who see it as a major step towards achieving the country’s development goals. However, some have called for concrete action to back his words, citing the need for more effective institutions and laws to combat corruption.
The President’s commitment to fighting corruption is part of his broader vision for Uganda’s development, which includes promoting economic growth, improving healthcare and education, and strengthening the country’s institutions
President Museveni has stressed that corruption is a major obstacle to Uganda’s progress, emphasizing that it’s unnecessary and undermines the country’s development. He urged citizens not to remain silent and to provide factual evidence to support the fight against corruption.
Museveni’s stance on corruption is part of his broader vision for Uganda’s transformation, which includes promoting economic growth, improving healthcare and education, and strengthening institutions. He has identified corruption as one of the key challenges to achieving these goals.
The President has also warned that public servants and political leaders found guilty of corruption will face severe consequences, stating that “Public servants and political leaders that steal Government money are corrupt and will be crushed”.
Museveni’s call to action encourages citizens to play a more active role in reporting corruption and providing evidence to support investigations. This collaborative approach aims to create a more transparent and accountable society, where corruption is no longer tolerated.
