By Ben Musanje
Kampala-based journalist Arnold Anthony Mukose has been remanded to Luzira Prison until April 14, 2026, as the court awaits the state’s response to his bail application and a ruling from the magistrate.
Mukose appeared on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, before Magistrate Ivan Muloba at the Law Development Centre (LDC) Court, where he was formally charged with multiple offences related to the alleged publication of false information. He pleaded not guilty to all charges.
According to the prosecution, Mukose is accused of broadcasting fake news and sending false distress messages claiming that Uganda’s First Lady, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, had died. The messages were reportedly published on an online platform known as Alternative Digital Channel between January 26 and March 29, 2026.
The charges include broadcasting fake news, contrary to Regulation 110(e) of the Uganda Communications Commission (Licensing) Regulations Act, 2019, and sending false distress signals, contrary to Section 82 of the Uganda Communications Act. Court documents indicate that Mukose and others allegedly disseminated the false information across digital platforms “knowingly and unlawfully,” causing public alarm.
Mukose was reportedly abducted on Sunday, shortly after appearing on a talk show at Metro FM in Kampala City Center, and later resurfaced in police custody. Authorities have not publicly addressed the circumstances surrounding the alleged abduction.
The case has sparked debate over press freedom, digital regulation, and the spread of misinformation in Uganda. The court is expected to revisit the matter on April 14, when a decision on Mukose’s bail application may also be delivered.
Mukose’s lawyer, Kato Tumusiime, said his client has the right to express opinions, report news, and inform the public. He argued that the journalist’s rights should not be constrained by criminal charges and emphasized that previous challenges to the Computer Misuse Act had successfully protected journalists from similar charges. Tumusiime further criticized the Uganda Communications Commission Act, suggesting it allows authorities to target individuals simply for using social media platforms like Facebook or TikTok.
“The state requested more time for verification, which the court granted. The matter has been adjourned to April 14, 2026, for the court to rule on the bail application. Our client maintains his innocence and will appear in court on the scheduled date,” Tumusiime said. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
