The Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), Mr. Nyombi Thembo, has rejected allegations that the regulator’s recent seizure of broadcasting equipment from journalist Dean Lubowa was motivated by personal animosity.
Nyombi said the enforcement action was strictly professional and based on legal grounds, following what the Commission described as “multiple serious violations.”
“I want to make it absolutely clear: the actions taken by the Commission against Mr. Lubowa are not motivated by personal grievances. As the Executive Director of UCC, I will not exploit my position for personal vendettas,” Nyombi told reporters.
UCC accused Lubowa of operating without a broadcast licence, illegally installing broadcasting equipment, and defying directives previously issued by the regulator. The Commission also said it had received numerous complaints about allegedly defamatory content published by his platform.
Nyombi insisted that Lubowa’s case was not unique, pointing out that other platforms had also been investigated. “While some have regularised their operations and been authorised to continue, Mr. Lubowa has left us no choice but to pursue enforcement,” he said.
Responding to Lubowa’s claims that he is being personally targeted, Nyombi dismissed the allegations as attempts at blackmail.
“His recent attacks on me and my team are merely desperate attempts at blackmail, designed to intimidate us into submission. I have never lodged a complaint against him; his claims are simply slanderous fabrications,” he said.
The UCC boss added that the regulator would not be derailed from its mandate. “The Commission remains committed to enforcing the law fairly and professionally, without fear or favour. We are here to serve the public interest and will not be intimidated.”
Nyombi further cautioned all providers of online data communication services to regularise their operations to avoid similar regulatory action.
