By KT Reporter
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has authorized Boona FM, a Rukungiri-based radio station, to resume operations after a week-long suspension, but under strict conditions and with a fine of USD 260.
UCC ordered the closure of the station, owned by businessman Wenceslaus Manige, on September 12, 2025, for failure to comply with regulatory directives.
In July, the commission had directed Boona FM to suspend all programs hosted by its station manager and presenter, Kakyene Namanya, over allegations of false and malicious broadcasts in violation of the Minimum Broadcasting Standards.
According to UCC, Namanya allegedly used a July 3, 2025 broadcast between 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to claim that the launch of a power extension project by Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, in partnership with Kuwait Energy, was “a hoax to hoodwink voters.”
The broadcast reportedly urged the public to disregard the ministry’s efforts, accusing the government of staging the project for political mileage.
The suspension drew mixed reactions in Rukungiri, with some listeners accusing Security Minister Jim Katuguugu Muhweezi of influencing the closure. Muhweezi, however, dismissed the claims in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), calling them “fake narratives being fueled by the usual obscurantists.”
In a September 19, 2025 letter signed by Haruna Musinguzi on behalf of UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, the regulator authorized Boona FM to resume operations effective September 20. The station is required to pay the USD 260 fine within 14 days and complete its license renewal process within 60 days of submitting its renewal application.
UCC further ordered the station to maintain compliance with broadcasting standards, warning against repeat violations. It also upheld the suspension of all programs hosted by Namanya, noting that he is not a qualified journalist but has since commenced studies to attain the required credentials. The commission directed Boona FM not to air programs hosted by unregistered journalists.
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