UCC Denies Political Motive in Point FM Shutdown, Cites Regulatory Breaches
KAMPALA – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has moved to quell public speculation, firmly denying that the recent closure of Point FM 105.1 in Mubende was linked to the station’s planned hosting of an opposition political figure.
The clarification comes in response to what the Commission describes as a “misleading media report” that suggested political interference. In a public notice issued on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025, the UCC stated that the shutdown was prompted solely by multiple regulatory infractions.
According to the UCC, Point FM was directed to cease broadcasting for operating without a valid license and for failing to address a series of compliance issues. These included the unauthorized relocation of its transmission equipment, the use of unassigned frequencies, failure to complete the mandatory type-approval process for its gear, and non-payment of regulatory fees.
“The Commission considers all licensed broadcasters as valued partners and expects them to uphold the licensing and technical standards that ensure safe, reliable, and lawful broadcasting,” the UCC stated, emphasizing that its actions are strictly guided by the Uganda Communications Act.
The regulator pushed back strongly against the narrative of political motivation, asserting that “no broadcaster has ever been sanctioned for hosting any political figure or party representative.” The notice reaffirmed that all duly nominated presidential candidates remain free to conduct their campaigns through compliant media channels.
The closure of Point FM occurs amid a period of significant political realignment, following the recent announcement by the Democratic Front, led by Mathias Mpuuga, to support Mubarak Munyagwa for president in the 2026 elections and explicitly urge their supporters not to vote for Bobi Wine.
The UCC has assured that Point FM will be permitted to resume broadcasting once it addresses all outstanding obligations and regularizes its operations with the Commission.
