UCC vows to seize transmitters of media houses broadcasting immoral content

The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has announced plans to seize transmitters of media houses that continue to broadcast immoral content, as part of efforts to enforce the country’s broadcasting standards and curb explicit material on Ugandan airwaves.

Nyombi Thembo, the UCC Executive Director, emphasized the regulator’s commitment to ensuring that media outlets adhere to the set broadcasting regulations, which prohibit content deemed obscene, indecent, or offensive.

“We will not hesitate to seize the transmitters of any media house that insists on broadcasting immoral content,” Thembo stated. “Our role is to protect the public from harmful material, and we will take all necessary steps to ensure compliance with the law.”

The UCC’s decision follows rising concerns among Ugandans about the increasing explicitness of songs, videos, and programs aired on radio and television. The regulator has already identified several songs containing explicit lyrics, nudity, and inappropriate themes, warning broadcasters to stop airing them or face sanctions.

As part of this crackdown, the UCC has suspended the broadcast of several popular songs, including “Enkudi,” “Dooze,” “Okwepiicha,” “Enyama,” and “Omunio” by artists Lil Pazo and Gravity Omutujju. Thembo explained that these songs promote values that undermine societal morals and pose potential harm to the public.

Additionally, the UCC has issued a directive to organizers and promoters of public entertainment events, requiring them to obtain proper authorization before hosting performances. Those who fail to comply will face penalties, including regulatory sanctions and possible prosecution.

The crackdown has been met with mixed reactions from the public. While many Ugandans, including religious leaders, support the move, others remain skeptical about its implementation. Pastor Martin Ssempa praised the UCC for taking action, saying,

“We are tired of being bombarded with explicit content every time we turn on the radio or TV. It’s high time the UCC stepped in to protect our values.”

However, critics argue that the UCC must strike a balance between enforcement and media freedom, cautioning against potential abuse of its authority.

In response, the UCC has reassured the public that its intentions are solely to protect the public from harmful content and not to stifle creativity or freedom of expression. The commission maintains that strict enforcement of regulations is necessary to safeguard Uganda’s moral standards and ensure responsible broadcasting.