Kampala – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has directed online broadcaster TV10 Gano Mazima, owned by former NTV reporter Dean Lubowa Saava, to remove allegedly defamatory content and issue public apologies to multiple complainants.
Background
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The directive, signed by UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, follows investigations into broadcasts containing unverified allegations against institutions and individuals, including Post Bank and its employees.
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Complainants said the content labelled them as “thieves, fraudsters, and corrupt” without evidence or their right of reply.
UCC’s Findings
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TV10’s online broadcasts are classified as “broadcasting” under the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103, and therefore fall under UCC regulation.
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The Commission ruled that the broadcaster:
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Failed to comply with minimum broadcasting standards.
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Breached content regulations and the journalistic code of ethics.
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Aired unverified allegations without contacting the accused parties.
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UCC dismissed Saava’s defense that the broadcasts relied on previously published reports or ongoing court cases, stressing that repeating defamatory claims does not shield media houses from liability.
Orders to TV10 and Dean Saava
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Remove all defamatory content immediately from online platforms.
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Issue unconditional public apologies with equal prominence to the original broadcasts.
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Provide complainants airtime to present their side of the story within three days, at no cost.
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Apply for an online broadcasting license within five days or cease operations until licensed.
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Implement compliance measures to ensure all content meets broadcasting standards and the law.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
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UCC warned that failure to comply could result in platform blocking, regulatory sanctions, or prosecution.
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The Commission also cautioned against further unsubstantiated attacks on UCC or its officials.
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While UCC cannot award damages, complainants have the option to pursue monetary compensation through court.
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Aggrieved parties may appeal the ruling within 30 days under the Uganda Communications Act.
