Da Dona
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- Dec 16, 2025
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Veteran journalist Timothy Kalyegira, popularly known as Nyakahuma, has been remanded after appearing before the Kira Chief Magistrate's Court on charges of broadcasting without a licence, contrary to the Uganda Communications Act.
The 58-year-old, a resident of Kira Municipality in Wakiso District, was arraigned on Monday following investigations by Kira Division Police under Criminal Reference Book (CRB) 475/2026. He denied both charges when they were read to him in court.
According to the charge sheet prepared by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), Kalyegira is accused of operating two media platforms without obtaining the mandatory broadcasting licence from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
The first count alleges that between 2013 and 2026, Kalyegira broadcast content through The Kampala Express, described by prosecutors as a video production and media consulting platform, without a licence from the UCC. The second count alleges that between 2014 and 2026, he operated The Uganda Records, an online publication platform, broadcasting content in Kampala, Wakiso and other parts of Uganda without the required authorisation. Both charges are brought under Section 28(1) and (2) of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103, which requires all broadcasters to obtain licences before offering broadcasting services.
The prosecution did not immediately reveal the evidence it intends to rely on during trial. The case comes amid increased regulatory scrutiny of online publishers and digital broadcasters, with authorities maintaining that anyone engaged in broadcasting activities must comply with licensing requirements established under Ugandan law.
Kalyegira is a well-known journalist and political commentator who has worked for several media organisations over the years and currently publishes content through online platforms. His prosecution has drawn attention within media circles, with journalists and free-expression advocates closely watching the case over its potential implications for independent digital media and online.
Source: Daily Monitor UG