By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
Mao Accuses Media of Bias, Calls for Higher Journalism Standards
The President General of the Democratic Party (DP) and Minister for Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, has called for improved journalism standards in Uganda, accusing some media houses of biased reporting.
Speaking at the DP mobilization headquarters on Balintuma Road in Rubaga Division, Kampala, on Tuesday, Mao expressed discontent with what he described as “critical and negative” media coverage of the Democratic Party’s internal affairs.
“The media only focuses on the little negative, when Mao or DP does anything positive, you don’t report it. The journalism standards in this country need to be improved,” Mao said.
He accused several media outlets of focusing solely on the party’s alleged internal wrangles, particularly ahead of the party’s upcoming Delegates Conference to elect new leaders. Mao singled out CBS FM, a radio station owned by the Buganda Kingdom, for what he termed as “spreading falsehoods.”
“Why would a media house like CBS, which never gives DP airtime, suddenly give us 10 minutes only to spread negativity and hatred? Surely, God should do something to you,” Mao said.
The Minister went further to invoke divine judgment on journalists he accused of biased coverage.
“I hope God calls you soon, you go and answer because you need to be questioned,” he added.
Drawing a parallel with the 1994 Rwandan Genocide, Mao warned against the dangers of irresponsible journalism.
“In Rwanda, the genocide was caused by journalists who incited the Hutus and revealed the hiding places of the Tutsis,” he said. “Is that what you want to see happening in Uganda? If so, you may live to see it. Unfortunately, you will not benefit from it. God ensures punishment is served even before looking at your heart.”
Mao also launched a personal attack on CBS news anchor Wamala Balunaba, accusing him of using the morning bulletin to repeatedly attack him and the DP.
“You hear a man like Balunaba, he spends the morning bulletin attacking Mao and DP. What does he even know about politics? He’s just a jukebox, Pay-as-you-go,” Mao remarked.
During the press briefing, Mao picked nomination forms to contest for a fourth term as DP president and the party’s presidential flag bearer in the 2026 general elections. Others who picked nomination forms include DP Vice President for Buganda Region Hon. Fred Mukasa Mbidde, and Secretary General Gerald Siranda, both seeking to retain their positions.
