By Spy Uganda
Kampala: According to UCC guidelines, a radio or Tv presenter is supposed to resign their presentation jobs after being nominated for a political office, in order to avoid using their programmes unfairly by promoting their candidature/agendas at the disadvantage of the other contenders who don’t have the same opportunity.
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“The guidelines for use of the media during general elections provide that; candidates shall not be presenters of any program on radio or TV during the election period. The commission has however noted that some media houses are continuing to allow candidates that have duly been nominated by the Independent electoral commission, to continue presenting programs on radio and TVs in total contravention of the guidelines” reads part of UCC’s new communication to all media houses.
An example of such candidates is Busiro South MP ‘Piiira Ssematimba’ Muzukulu wa Gabunga, real names Peter Ssematimba, who uses his own Radio station Super FM 88.5 and his 7at7pm show to champion his second term bid. Anatalia Ooze of NBS TV (Uncut), Jackob Omutuuze of Dembe FM, Abu Ssemakula Omunene of Super Fm among others are some of the names our spy eaves dropped being discussed.
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In addition, the commission noted, “All broadcasters are reminded of their obligation and commitment to comply with the laws of Uganda and guidelines prescribed by the Commission to ensure harmony and peaceful co-existence in society.”
The Commission says these guidelines were made, after thorough consultations with the information ministry the Electoral Commission; the Media Council, the Africa Centre for Media Excellence, media practitioners from various parts of Uganda under the National Broadcasters and the Rural Broadcasters Association and therefore should be respected.
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“In accordance with the Campaigning Guidelines that were issued by the Electoral Commission on the use of digital platforms for campaigns under the 2021 electoral Communications Technology and National Guidance, the Electoral Commission, the Media Council, the African Center for Media Excellence, media practitioners from various parts of Uganda under the National Association of broadcasters, and the Rural Broadcasters’ Association and other stakeholders, developed Guidelines for use of the media during general elections,” the statement reads.
