As Uganda gears up for the 2026 elections, the government is reportedly set to enforce stricter controls on media houses and digital content creators. The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has signaled an “iron fist” approach against what it describes as irresponsible online behavior.
UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Tembo confirmed that the Commission is engaging in discussions with global tech giants, including Meta (Facebook), X (formerly Twitter), YouTube, Google, and TikTok, to tighten oversight on Ugandan creators operating online.
In a viral audio clip that has since circulated widely, Tembo accused some content creators of using social media platforms to peddle insults, vulgarity, and paid smear campaigns. He referred to such actors as “digital abusers and dehumanizers,” vowing to curb misconduct.
“We cannot allow irresponsible broadcasting and online misconduct to go unchecked. Some of these so-called creators have turned platforms into tools of abuse,” Tembo stated.
The crackdown is seen as a pre-emptive measure to sanitize Uganda’s online and media space ahead of the politically charged election period. While the UCC frames the move as an effort to protect citizens from harmful content, critics warn it could potentially stifle dissenting voices and limit freedom of expression online.
Observers say the coming months will be critical for digital creators and journalists as the government prepares to enforce these new rules, reshaping Uganda’s online landscape.
