The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has issued a directive to all radio and television broadcasters, warning against the use of their platforms to dispute officially declared election results.
In a public notice released Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the industry regulator expressed concern over what it described as a “concerning trend” of unsuccessful candidates using media airtime to challenge election outcomes through sensational and unverified claims.
The Sole Authority
The notice, signed by UCC Executive Director Hon. Nyombi Thembo, reminds the public and media houses that the Electoral Commission is the only constitutional body mandated to declare election results in Uganda.
“Broadcast media should not serve as alternative venues for litigating election disputes,” the statement reads. The Commission emphasised that any candidate dissatisfied with the results must seek legal redress through the court system by filing petitions within the established timelines.
Risks of Unverified Reporting
The UCC highlighted several specific actions that are now under strict scrutiny:
• Parallel Tallies: Disseminating results from unofficial counting centres.
• Unverified Results: Airing figures not confirmed by the Electoral Commission.
• Speculative Allegations: Hosting programs that promote unsubstantiated claims of fraud or malpractice.
According to the regulator, such broadcasts are not only unlawful but risk inciting public panic, causing confusion, and damaging Uganda’s democratic reputation.
Decisive Enforcement Action
The directive calls for “strict editorial oversight” to ensure all election-related content is vetted against official sources. Hon. Nyombi Thembo warned that the UCC will not hesitate to take decisive enforcement action against any broadcaster found in violation of these guidelines.
Media owners and editors have been urged to prioritise national unity and democratic integrity over sensationalism as the country navigates the post-election period.
