Broadcasters Unite for Ethical Peaceful 2026 Elections Coverage

As Uganda approaches the 2026 General Elections, a renewed spirit of dialogue and accountability is taking root across the nation, placing broadcasters at the center of efforts to safeguard democracy, foster peace, and promote responsible election coverage that strengthens national unity and public trust. Broadcasters are increasingly recognised as influential voices in shaping public opinion and guiding civic understanding during this critical period.

In this context, the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, in partnership with the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), has launched a series of regional engagements nationwide to equip broadcasters for the forthcoming elections. These conferences have brought together media practitioners, regulators, and key stakeholders from Mbale in the East to Gulu in the North and Kampala at the centre to reaffirm the vital role of the media in advancing professionalism, balanced reporting, and national cohesion throughout the electoral process.

The state minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Godfrey Kabbyanga Baluku, officiated the Regional Broadcasters Conference in Mbale City on September 23, 2025. In his keynote address, Hon. Kabbyanga emphasised that journalists and broadcasters are not just conveyors of information but also critical actors in empowering citizens to make informed choices. He noted that the dissemination of accurate and unbiased information is essential for building trust in both the electoral process and democratic institutions.

“Responsible journalism is the foundation of democracy. The way the media covers elections directly influences how citizens perceive the process, and ultimately, how they participate in it. As broadcasters, you have the responsibility to ensure that Uganda’s democracy keeps growing stronger,” Hon. Kabbyanga said.

The discussions centred on three main pillars, including the need for broadcasters to uphold compliance and professionalism by strictly adhering to UCC regulations and the Electoral Commission’s guidelines, while also committing to deliver balanced and fact-based reporting that shields the public from misinformation, disinformation, and biased coverage. Emphasis was also placed on the media's responsibility in shaping public discourse in ways that promote peace, tolerance, and fair competition among political actors. This would only be achieved if they remained professional, fair, and peace-driven. Broadcasters were also reminded that their role goes beyond relaying information; they are central to safeguarding national stability and nurturing an informed society as the country approaches the polls.

The same call was amplified, and the same message gained even more depth and urgency in Northern Uganda, where the Regional Broadcasters Conference convened in Gulu. Representing the UCC Executive Director, Mr Fred Otunnu delivered a firm reminder: “Airwaves are not private property; they are a public trust. During this election season, every headline must reflect professionalism, truth, and balance.”
Hon. Kabbyanga reiterated his call for fair and responsible reporting, stressing that “Broadcast responsibly. Fair coverage is not a favour; it is the oxygen of democracy. Without truth, elections suffocate.”

UPDF spokesperson Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye added his voice, underscoring the weight in shaping national stability: “Information is a weapon. Use it to protect Uganda, not to destabilise it. A broadcaster can either calm a storm or start one.”

The national conversation then moved to the Central Region, at the Imperial Royale Hotel in Kampala, where the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Aminah Zawedde, joined broadcasters and stakeholders from across the region. The discussions deepened, connecting the dots between freedom of expression and national unity, as participants reflected on their shared mandate to inform, not inflame; to enlighten, not mislead.

In his keynote address, the Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, reminded everyone of the critical role of media. “Broadcasting is not just about entertainment or competition for ratings,” he said. “It is about shaping public opinion, guiding our communities, and preserving peace. As we move closer to the 2026 elections, let us use our platforms to unite, not divide; to inform, not mislead; and to build, not destroy.”

Dr Baryomunsi’s remarks captured the essence of the national campaign, emphasising the importance of integrity and patriotism in journalism. He urged broadcasters to maintain neutrality, provide every political actor with a fair platform, and prioritise the public interest in their reporting. “Our airwaves must serve as instruments of national cohesion,” he said. “The stories we tell should lift Uganda higher, not tear it apart.”
Representatives from the Uganda Communications Commission and the Electoral Commission reiterated this message, reminding participants that while freedom of expression is a cornerstone of democracy, it must be exercised with responsibility. They encouraged the media to avoid sensationalism, disinformation, and hate speech, particularly during the campaign season, when emotions tend to run high.

As Uganda approaches the 2026 elections, the message to broadcasters is clear: report with accuracy, fairness, and responsibility. From Mbale to Gulu and Kampala, regional engagements have demonstrated that the media plays a crucial role in promoting unity and peace. How the election is remembered will depend not only on the results but on the honesty and integrity with which the story is told.