KAMPALA, Uganda — Veteran journalist and political commentator Timothy Kalyegira, popularly known as Nyakahuma, has been charged with two counts of broadcasting without a licence and remanded to Luzira Prison by the Kira Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Kalyegira, 58, appeared before the court on Monday and denied both charges brought under Section 28(1) and (2) of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap. 103. The case stems from investigations conducted by Kira Division Police under Criminal Reference Book (CRB) 475/2026.
According to the charge sheet prepared by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), prosecutors allege that Kalyegira operated two online media platforms without obtaining the required broadcasting licence from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC).
The first charge 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 authorization from UCC. The second charge accuses him of operating The Uganda Records, an online publication platform, without the mandatory broadcasting licence between 2014 and 2026.
The prosecution contends that the alleged offences were committed in various parts of Uganda, including Kampala and Wakiso districts.
Kalyegira pleaded not guilty to both counts when they were read to him in court. The prosecution did not immediately disclose the evidence it intends to rely upon during trial.
The court remanded the journalist to Luzira Prison until July 16, 2026, when he is expected to return for further proceedings.
The case has drawn significant attention within media and civil society circles because of Kalyegira’s long career as a journalist, editor and political commentator. He is widely known for publishing political analysis through his online platforms and social media channels.
The prosecution comes amid increased regulatory scrutiny of online publishers and digital broadcasters in Uganda. The Uganda Communications Commission has maintained that individuals and entities providing broadcasting services, including certain online broadcasting platforms, must obtain the appropriate licences before commencing operations, as required under the Uganda Communications Act.
Media freedom advocates have, however, expressed concern that the application of broadcasting laws to online publishers could have implications for freedom of expression and independent digital journalism, arguing that the legal framework governing online media continues to evolve.
Kalyegira remains presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
