The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has directed all broadcasters and users of online communication platforms to stop announcing or publishing election results, warning that only the Electoral Commission has the legal mandate to declare official results.
In a directive issued to television stations, radio broadcasters, online media platforms and social media users, UCC said it has noted cases in past elections where false or unauthorised results were announced, causing confusion and undermining public trust in the electoral process.
The Commission reminded media houses that under Ugandan law, the Electoral Commission is the only body authorised to tally, declare and announce results from polling stations.
UCC warned that broadcasters must not air projected, parallel or unofficial results, including tallies attributed to political parties, party agents, civil society organisations, individuals, random callers or unofficial reporters.
“Any declaration of results outside the Electoral Commission process is illegal,” the directive states.
Where media houses broadcast results officially released by the Electoral Commission, UCC said the information must be presented exactly as it appears on the declaration forms. Broadcasters are also required to keep copies of the official declaration forms or audio visual recordings of returning officers announcing the results.
UCC further directed broadcasters to remind viewers and listeners at the end of every results bulletin that the figures announced are based on official records from the Electoral Commission.
The Commission also cautioned online users, including social media account holders, group administrators and hosts of public discussions, against posting or sharing false, misleading or inflammatory election information, noting that such actions are criminal under the Computer Misuse Act.
Social media administrators have been instructed to moderate their platforms to ensure prohibited content is not circulated.
UCC said it will take administrative and legal action against any broadcaster or individual who violates the directive, including issuing warnings, fines, suspension of broadcasts or prosecution under the law.
The Commission has directed all broadcasters to circulate the guidance to their editorial, programming and on-air staff and ensure strict compliance throughout the election period.
Media houses and online platforms have also been encouraged to seek prior authorisation and accreditation from the Electoral Commission to facilitate smooth coverage and access to official updates.
