Government Issues Directives to Broadcasters Ahead of Elections, Announces Industry Shake-Up
KAMPALA – In a major address to leaders in the broadcasting sector last Friday, the government through the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has laid out a stringent set of guidelines for media houses covering the upcoming elections, emphasizing balance, peace, and security, while also announcing a significant rationalization of the industry to ensure its sustainability.
The meeting, which focused on the media’s critical role in the democratic process, underscored the immense power and responsibility broadcasters hold in shaping public opinion.
Key Directives for Election Coverage
The address delivered several non-negotiable directives for all broadcasters:
· Balance and Fairness: Media outlets have been instructed to provide balanced coverage that represents all sides of the political landscape. The address noted a concerning trend of media practitioners seeking elective office, warning of potential conflicts of interest and the imperative to uphold integrity through unbiased reporting.
· Promoting Peace and Security: Broadcasters were urged to ensure their reporting does not incite hatred or violence. The media’s role was framed as crucial for national stability, with a clear warning against careless reporting that could undermine security during a sensitive electoral period.
· Official Results Only: In a move to prevent confusion and panic, the government mandated that all election results must be sourced exclusively from the Official Electoral Commission Tally Centre. Any unofficial announcements of results will be prohibited.
Industry Restructuring for Sustainability
Citing financial pressures from digital platforms and decreasing profitability, the government announced a comprehensive plan to rationalize the number of radio and TV stations. The UCC will undertake a review process that includes:
· Spectrum Audit and Licensing Reform: A full audit of the broadcast spectrum will be conducted to determine how many stations can be sustainably supported. This will be followed by the introduction of stricter licensing requirements.
· Market Sustainability Tests: Stations seeking license renewals will be subjected to new assessments to ensure they comply with standards and are financially viable.
· Encouraging Mergers: To strengthen the market, the UCC will actively promote mergers and partnerships among media houses to enhance content-sharing and improve competitiveness.
The government concluded by calling for collective effort to uphold the integrity of the broadcasting sector, committing to fair, responsible journalism that serves the best interests of all Ugandans during the election period and beyond.
