UCC Reminds Public on Responsible Use of Communication Platforms Following Court Ruling
Kampala, Uganda – The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a public advisory urging citizens to exercise responsibility when using digital platforms, following what it describes as increased misuse of social media after a recent Constitutional Court decision.
The Court earlier annulled several provisions of the Computer Misuse Amendment Act, 2022, including sections related to unauthorised access, hate speech, unsolicited and malicious information, and misuse of social media. However, the Commission clarified that this ruling has not left the digital space unregulated.
“The Court annulled specific sections of the law … many other provisions of the Computer Misuse Act remain fully in force,” the advisory stated. “These include laws against cyber harassment, cyber stalking, and electronic fraud.”
The Commission also noted that while certain libel provisions under the Penal Code were annulled, the remainder of the Penal Code Act remains applicable. Additionally, the Uganda Communications Act, the Data Protection and Privacy Act, and the Children’s Act continue to regulate communication platforms and protect individual rights.
“We urge all users to exercise responsibility in their use of digital platforms,” the advisory read. “Let us use technology to advance our socio-economic wellbeing, and not to harm others, violate their rights, or undermine the peace and security of our country.”
The UCC encouraged the public to report any misuse of communication platforms to the Commission or the Uganda Police Force, emphasising the importance of a safe, respectful, and secure digital environment for all.
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