By Ambrose Gahene,
KAMPALA
The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr.Chris Baryomunsi has faulted Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) for shutting down Makerere University FM Radio, saying he is going to make a follow up to ensure the Radio resumes broadcasts. Minister Baryomunsi made the comments during the marking of the International Day for Universal Access to Information on Thursday at Makerere University, where he was Chief Guest.
“Unlike other profit making commercial FM Radio stations, the one at Makerere University is basically meant to teach students enrolled in Journalism and Mass Communications, which is why I’m going to ensure the Radio goes back On Air because UCC is under the docket of my Ministry”, said Dr. Baryomunsi, amidst applause from students of Journalism and participants at the Conference.
Baryomunsi said the Government has over time improved the Information and Communications landscape in the country.
“Uganda currently has over 300 Radio Stations, over 50 Television Stations and countless online media channels, which signifies Government’s support for the right of citizens to access to information”, minister Baryomunsi said commending Ugandan government for implementing universal access to information.
He however, cautioned those engaged in the dissemination of information, especially online channels, to desist from the use of vulgar and abusive language and the dissemination of “fake news”.
Responding to different voices over shutting down of Facebook by the Government, Minister Baryomunsi said owners of social media platforms should not meddle in the internal affairs of Uganda political landscape by taking sides, especially during election campaign period, as was exhibited by Facebook in 2021 General election campaigns.
He said discussions are underway between Facebook and UCC to ensure certain conditions are agreed upon by the two parties before Facebook gets re-opened.
German Ambassador, H.E Mathias Schauer, told participants at the function that in democratic systems, people have to live in a free environment devoid of fear or favor.
He called on media practitioners to exhibit professional ethics by disseminating well balanced and researched news.
“Quality Journalism should be promoted through desisting from publication of false or fake news”, he said.
During panel discussions, Senior Superintendent of Police, Donald Muhwezi, labored to explain how Uganda police is promoting access to information.
“Every Monday, we have a police press briefing about the security situation in the country and every year, the police release an annual crime report to the media houses”, he said.
During conclusion remarks, Mr. Gilbert Sendugwa, the Executive Director of African Freedom of Information Centre (AFIC), promised to make a follow-up, to ensure Makerere University Radio is re-opened.
“In addition, we shall work with relevant stakeholders to ensure Journalists are not harassed by police in the course of carrying out their duties.
He added that; access to Information is not just a matter of policy; but it’s essential for citizen’s empowerment and participatory governance.
“We view the International Day of Universal Access to Information celebrations as a crucial opportunity to reflect on the strides made in Uganda while also recognizing the challenges that remain”
“It’s important that we continue to advocate for a robust legal framework that enhances transparency and accountability, ensuring that information flows freely to all citizens”, he added.
