Uganda shut down Pearl FM radio yesterday. The station played at 107.9 FM across Kampala until officials pulled the plug. The Uganda Communications Commission stepped in because they claim the station broke broadcasting rules. The shutdown will last as long as needed for a full review.
The trouble came from a show called Mpulidde Kamenya, which aired on March 12. Host Suleiman Kalule talked about voting problems during the Kawempe North election. He said people were stuffing ballots at several places around Kawempe. The message worried local authorities because it might cause trouble among voters just before election day.
UCC leader Thembo Nyombi blamed the station for sharing made-up stories about the election. He claimed Kalule mixed up facts with personal opinions during the broadcast. The commission believes radio hosts must meet higher standards under Press laws. They worry messages like these can cause violence or mess up elections.
The station cannot air anything until UCC finishes checking everything out. Pearl FM must write a letter explaining what happened that day. They need to show papers proving the editor, host, and producer have proper training. UCC also wants details about any delay systems Pearl FM uses when broadcasting live shows.
The trouble came from a show called Mpulidde Kamenya, which aired on March 12. Host Suleiman Kalule talked about voting problems during the Kawempe North election. He said people were stuffing ballots at several places around Kawempe. The message worried local authorities because it might cause trouble among voters just before election day.
UCC leader Thembo Nyombi blamed the station for sharing made-up stories about the election. He claimed Kalule mixed up facts with personal opinions during the broadcast. The commission believes radio hosts must meet higher standards under Press laws. They worry messages like these can cause violence or mess up elections.
The station cannot air anything until UCC finishes checking everything out. Pearl FM must write a letter explaining what happened that day. They need to show papers proving the editor, host, and producer have proper training. UCC also wants details about any delay systems Pearl FM uses when broadcasting live shows.
