Patrick Okidi, Lira (Uganda) – The Assistant Resident City Commissioner (ARCC) of Lira City, Mr. Bonny Okello Alele, has appealed to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to implement stricter regulations on broadcaster content.
Mr. Alele made this statement during his closing remarks at a one-day stakeholder engagement meeting with radio broadcasters on key compliance issues. The meeting, held at Gracious Palace Hotel on Thursday, August 8th, 2024, brought together radio station managers, directors, security personnel, and political leaders.
Representatives from UCC, including the Director of Legal Affairs, Head of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, and Head of Economic Regulation, Content, and Consumer Affairs, presented guidelines for radio station compliance.
“We cannot allow radio stations to be exploited by unlicensed traditional healers promoting unapproved medicine,” emphasized ARCC Alele. “Furthermore, some stations provide platforms for politicians and their agents to engage in insults and vulgar language. This is unacceptable.”
He acknowledged the importance of communication for the Ugandan government, particularly in reaching local communities. However, he stressed the need for responsible content.
“While Uganda, under the leadership of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, grants freedom of expression, we must prioritize the purpose of radio communication,” stated Mr. Alele. “This includes promoting government programs like Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyoga, and Youth Livelihood Program (YLP) to foster socio-economic transformation. Radio stations should not be used to incite violence, abuse opponents, or allow exploitation by ‘miracle pastors,’ job scammers, or sponsors who mislead the public.”
Mr. Alele emphasized that the office of the Presidency, Lira City led by RCC Lawrence Egole, and the Lira City security team will not tolerate radio stations that incite violence. Instead, they encourage stations to provide space and programs that promote education and economic growth for the benefit of society.
