By TV10 Editorial Team
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has taken a bold step, defying a court order by summoning the managers of TV 10 and Trumpet News platforms for an arbitral hearing. This move has sparked controversy, with many viewing it as a blatant disregard for the rule of law.
The UCC’s actions have been perceived as an attempt to exert control over the media outlets, which have likely been critical of the government or its agencies. By summoning the managers for an arbitral hearing, the UCC may be trying to intimidate them into toeing the government’s line.
This development raises concerns about media freedom and the independence of the judiciary in Uganda. If the UCC is allowed to defy court orders with impunity, it sets a dangerous precedent for the erosion of democratic institutions and the suppression of free speech.
It remains to be seen how the court will respond to the UCC’s actions and whether the managers of TV 10 and Trumpet News will comply with the summons. One thing is certain, however: this development has significant implications for the future of media freedom and democracy in Uganda.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has summoned the managers of TV 10 Gano Mazima and Trumpet News platforms for arbitral hearings. This move is part of investigations into alleged defamation and breach of minimum broadcasting standards, which are ongoing in court.
The UCC regulates the communications sector in Uganda, including telecommunications, broadcasting, and radio communication. They have the authority to enforce minimum broadcasting standards and investigate complaints of defamation.
In a related development, the UCC had previously shut down TMC Media, trading as TV10 Gano Mazima, for operating an illegal online media house. The commission stated that the media house was not authorized to provide online data communication services in Uganda.
The arbitral hearings will likely focus on the alleged breaches of broadcasting standards and defamation. The UCC’s actions suggest a commitment to enforcing regulatory standards and maintaining ethical broadcasting practices in Uganda.
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has summoned the managers of TV 10 Gano Mazima and Trumpet News platforms for an arbitral hearing. This move is in accordance with the UCC’s mandate under the Uganda Communications Act 2013, specifically sections 5(1) (b), (j), 27, 45, and 46.
The arbitral hearing, scheduled for February 20, 2025, at the UCC House in Bugolobi, aims to address allegations of defamation and breach of minimum broadcasting standards. The UCC has invited the parties to present their cases, marking a significant step in the commission’s efforts to regulate the communications sector in Uganda.
As the primary regulator of the communications sector, the UCC is responsible for enforcing standards and ensuring compliance with regulations. This move demonstrates the commission’s commitment to maintaining ethical broadcasting practices and protecting the public interest.
These parties are:
1. Alex Lutaaya Mukomazi v TMC Media T/a TV 10
2. Alex Lutaaya Mukomazi v TMC MEDIA T/a TV10 & Trumpet News Media Limited.
3. Owek.Prof. Al Haji Badru Dungu Katerega v TMC Media T/a TV 10
In a move that raises serious concerns about the rule of law and judicial independence, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a directive that appears to disregard ongoing court proceedings. Despite the fact that the cases are still being heard in court, the UCC has summoned the managers of TV 10 Gano Mazima and Trumpet News platforms for an arbitral hearing.
This directive is likely to be seen as a contempt of court, as it disrupts the legal process and disobeys the authority of the judiciary. The UCC’s threat to proceed with determining the complaint and issuing regulatory directives without further notice only adds to the perception that the commission is attempting to undermine the judicial process.
By summoning the managers to appear before the UCC while the cases are still in court, the commission is essentially pitting the managers against the temple of justice. This move has the potential to create a constitutional crisis, as it challenges the authority and independence of the judiciary.
The UCC’s actions raise fundamental questions about the rule of law, separation of powers, and the limits of executive authority in Uganda. As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the judiciary will respond to this challenge to its authority.
