UCC summons Pastor Kayanja over ‘distorted’ sodomy case broadcasts
KAMPALA: The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has summoned Channel 44 TV and city pastor Robert Kayanja to submit recordings of church broadcasts aired between March 19 and 21, 2026, over allegations of false and distorted reporting linked to a sodomy case.
In a letter dated April 20, 2026, UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo said the Commission had received a formal complaint regarding the content aired on the station during the указан dates. The complaint was filed by Ojambo & Ojambo Advocates on behalf of complainants involved in an ongoing criminal case before the Chief Magistrate’s Court of Mengo at Nateete/Rubaga.
According to UCC, the broadcasts featured Pastor Kayanja during a church service, where he allegedly made statements that distorted forensic evidence presented in court. The complaint claims the statements were misleading, intended to ridicule defence lawyers, and misrepresented the findings of a forensic expert.
The case involves nine young men accused of fabricating sodomy allegations against the pastor. During proceedings, a police forensic expert reportedly testified that there was no evidence showing Kayanja sent pornographic messages or videos, contradicting claims made earlier in the case.
UCC noted that under the Uganda Communications Act, broadcasters are required to adhere to minimum broadcasting standards and avoid airing misleading or unverified content. The Commission has since launched investigations into the matter.
Channel 44 TV has been directed to submit recordings of the questioned broadcasts and provide written explanations by close of business on Monday, April 27, 2026.
A hearing has been scheduled for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at UCC House in Bugolobi starting at 2:00 pm. The station is expected to send representatives, including Pastor Kayanja, who is cited as the presenter in the broadcasts under review.
UCC warned that failure to comply will not halt investigations and that regulatory action may be taken based on available evidence.
The complainants and their lawyers have also been notified and are expected to attend the hearing to provide further clarification.
