Tayari News
KAMPALA – As Uganda counts down to the polling day, the Ministry of Information, Communications Technology, and National Guidance (ICT) has warned media practitioners against misinforming the public before, during, and after the election.
According to Dr Amina Zawedde, the ICT Permanent Secretary, with the ongoing electoral processes, public engagement and increased participation of the public in electoral events have been registered, but have also posed a lot of misinformation-which creates fear, undermines public confidence, and risks heightening tension.
“However, we have seen a rise in misinformation, particularly on digital platforms. One of the most persistent things currently circulating is that the Government of Uganda intends to switch off the internet during elections. The government has not announced, or has not directed or implemented any decision to shut down the Internet during the election period.” Said Dr Zawedde, adding that claims suggesting otherwise are just claims and are therefore misleading.
Stressing the Ministry’s commitment to promoting access to information, to promote digital inclusion and the responsible use of information and communication technologies, the permanent secretary appreciated the role played by media houses in propagating democratic participation by enabling citizens to access accurate and timely information and that the ICT ministry is going to work closely with UCC who are the regulator of communication space to prepare the media sector for critical election period.
“Together, we have engaged broadcasters and media stakeholders across the country to reinforce professionalism, ethical conduct and accountability in election coverage. These efforts have been implemented by ongoing nationwide sensitisation through Radios, digital platforms, television, and direct engagement with media practitioners.” Dr. Zawedde explained
Responsible media coverage
Dr Zawedde argued that responsible reporting during elections is not optional, but essential for peace, public order and national stability.
“Media platforms must therefore not be used to incite violence, spread falsehoods or undermine the credibility of the electoral process. The misuse of both traditional and digital media by political actors or individuals in pursuit of narrow interests will not be tolerated.” She noted
Adding: “Broadcasters and online media practitioners are reminded that live broadcasting or streamlining of riots, unlawful procession or violent incidents is prohibited as it can escalate tensions and spread panic among the population,” warning that declaration of election results remains a sole mandate of the Electoral Commission and the broadcasting or sharing unverified or premature results is therefore illegal.
UCC Executive Director, Nyombi Thembo, charged the media houses and practitioners to pay attention to the licenses that were given to them because they carry guidelines. They explain how content producers should do their work.
“Follow the ethics that you were taught when training. You were trained and knitted to do this work very well. Don’t work like these guys who are paid to go and say something or abuse someone. Information is a raw material for decision-making. If that information is false, people will end up making wrong decisions,” Thembo charged