TOP STORY: UCC Cracks Down on Online Broadcaster TV10 Gano Mazima Over Defamatory Content
Kampala, Uganda — August 28, 2025
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a stern directive to online broadcaster TV10 Gano Mazima, owned by former NTV journalist Dean Lubowa Saava, ordering the immediate removal of allegedly defamatory content and the broadcast of public apologies to multiple complainants.
In a decision signed by UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, the Commission said investigations found that the broadcaster aired unverified allegations targeting individuals and institutions — notably Post Bank Uganda and its staff — labeling them as thieves, fraudsters, and corrupt without substantiating the claims or offering the accused a right of reply.
“TV10 Gano Mazima’s operations fall squarely under the definition of broadcasting as per the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103, and are subject to full regulatory oversight,” the statement reads.
The Commission said the broadcaster violated minimum broadcasting standards, content regulations, and ethical journalism by failing to verify facts and disregarding balanced reporting. UCC dismissed the broadcaster’s defense that it relied on earlier reports and ongoing court matters, emphasizing that freedom of expression must not override individuals’ rights to dignity and reputation.
Citing precedent, UCC clarified that repeating defamatory stories — even if published elsewhere — does not exempt media houses from accountability.
Key Directives Issued by UCC:
- Immediate removal of all offending content from TV10’s online platforms.
- Unconditional apologies must be broadcast with equal prominence to the original content.
- Complainants must be allowed to respond publicly within three days, at no cost.
- TV10 must apply for online broadcasting authorization within five days or cease operations until licensed.
- The broadcaster must enforce strict compliance with Uganda’s broadcasting laws and ethical standards.
- Further sanctions, including platform blocking or prosecution, may follow for non-compliance.
UCC also warned the broadcaster against publishing unsubstantiated accusations targeting the Commission or its officials.
While UCC has no mandate to award damages, it advised complainants to pursue civil redress through the courts. Aggrieved parties have 30 days to appeal the ruling under the Uganda Communications Act.
