By Aggrey Baba
As nation gears up for the 2026 general elections, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a sharp warning to journalists and media houses about the dangerous rise of fake news and misinformation.
This caution comes amidst growing concerns that such falsehoods could pose a significant threat to national security and social stability.
Susan Atengo, the UCC’s Director of Legal Affairs, spoke on behalf of Executive Director Thembo Nyombi recently, at the opening of the third Annual Convention 2024/2025.
Atengo emphasized that some media outlets are contributing to the spread of violence and hatred, warning that this could jeopardize Uganda’s security. She called for an urgent shift toward responsble journalism and stressed the importance of verifying information before it reaches the public.
“Misinformation and disinformation are not just harmful, but also erode public trust in the media, distort public perception, and hinder democracy,” Atengo warned. “The media must be diligent in ensuring the truthfulness of the information they share. Failure to do so can lead to disastrous consequences for our nation.”
She specifically highlighted the speed and reach of fake news on social media, where unverified content can spread rapidly. Atengo noted that algorithms on digital platforms often prioritize sensational stories, making it more difficult for the public to distinguish credible information from unreliable sources. This, she argued, intensifies the risks to both social harmony and democratic processes.
At the same event, Electoral Commission (EC) Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama spoke out against the escalating violence in the Kawempe North by-election campaigns.
He warned that such acts of aggression could spiral into chaos and disrupt the peace in the country. Byabakama condemned the actions of security forces, particularly the Joint Anti-terrorist Taskforce (JATT) and the police, for their treatment of candidates and their supporters, urging a more measured approach.
“The assault on journalists performing their duties is a direct attack on Uganda’s democratic principles,” Byabakama said. “We must ensure that all actors, including the security forces, respect the law and engage peacefully with the public.”
Additionally, Byabakama expressed concern over the growing trend of monetizing the electoral process, which he believes is undermining Uganda’s democracy.
He warned candidates against engaging in voter bribery and using money to manipulate the election, stressing that these actions discredit the electoral system and tarnish Uganda’s democratic reputation.
“Elections are not a commercial transaction. We need journalists to expose these corrupt practices, as they harm the integrity of our democracy,” Byabakama said.
The EC has been collaborating with security forces to maintain a peaceful and lawful election process, but Byabakama called on all political players to follow the rules and demonstrate restraint.
He urged all stakeholders to work towards a peaceful election environment, where the principles of democracy are upheld and respected. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
