By Ben Musanje
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a stern warning after observing a disturbing trend of unsuccessful parliamentary and local government candidates using radios and televisions to challenge officially declared election results through sensational and unverified claims.
In a public notice dated Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the Commission expressed concern that some candidates are turning broadcast media into platforms for disputing election outcomes, rather than following lawful procedures.
UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo reminded broadcasters and the public that the Electoral Commission is the only constitutional authority responsible for declaring election results in Uganda. He emphasized that candidates dissatisfied with outcomes must seek redress through the courts by filing petitions within the legally set timelines, rather than resorting to media platforms.
The Commission cautioned that broadcast media should not be treated as alternative venues for litigating electoral disputes, warning that airing unverified results or parallel tallies is unlawful. It noted that such actions could cause public panic, confusion, and a loss of trust in democratic institutions.
UCC further explained that these actions could incite unrest and damage Uganda’s democratic reputation.
The regulator has directed all broadcasters to refrain from airing any content that disputes declared election results without proper verification. This includes prohibiting programs that promote unofficial results or unsubstantiated claims, and calls for strict editorial oversight to ensure election-related information is verified against official Electoral Commission sources.
Nyombi Thembo warned that the regulator would not hesitate to take decisive enforcement action against stations that violate the directive. The Commission urged media owners, editors, and the general public to use broadcast platforms responsibly in a manner that promotes national unity and democratic integrity. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
