Lugambo? Kelere? Name it. Hate speech has taken on several disguises and has been termed in a multitude of ways. The government and communications sector regulator have always come up with ways to curb it. Do you remember the social media blackout during the 2016 general elections? Well, that was the government curbing “kelere” (read noise). On 13th June 2018, UCC issued strong warning against promotion of hate speech and incitement of violence. UCC warns broadcasters providing the platform for spreading hate speech.
The commission noted the rising incidences where broadcasters provide platform to spread hate speech. Members of the public use these platforms to express views that incite violence. Also, the same platforms are used to discriminate, stereotype against other persons or groups and stir up hatred.
In a letter to all broadcasters, the commission didn’t show any sign of tolerance of the above misuse of the platforms. Part of the letter read;
“This platform is provided in the form of interviews, talk shows or people calling into stations during live phone-in shows, where presenters permit persons to promote views that express hatred, discrimination, stereotype against other persons and groups in society on the basis of their political opinions, religions, tribes and offices.”
But Remember!
Section 5(1)(x) of the Uganda Communications Act (UCA) 2013 mandates UCC to set standards, monitor and enforce compliance relating to content. Also, Section 31 of the UCA requires all broadcasters to ensure that programs on their platforms comply with minimum broadcasting standards and all laws of Uganda.
Previous broadcasting regulation
Not long ago, UCC suspended ABS Television‘s licence when it fell short of the minimum required standards. 23 radio stations had their licences suspended after they were found in breach of the communications act.
UCC’s warning comes to remind all broadcasters to strictly comply with their statutory and licence obligations.
“..failure of which will leave UCC with no alternative but to invoke regulatory sanctions under section 41…”, the letter continued.
UCC instructed all online content providers to register as a way to monitor and regulate them. The commission later requested Internet Service Providers to block access to unregistered blogs and websites. Creepy plan to spy? Not really. Just regulatory business as usual. Hence, you have to listen when UCC sends a warning.
