The Government of Uganda is pushing ahead a new media law dubbed repressive by experts and in violation of the Constitution.
Dr George Lugalambi, chair of a coalition fighting to preserve press freedom in Uganda said the proposed media law is a monster, CISA news agency reported.
He added that publishers and journalists would have to apply annually for a licence, which could be revoked at will in the interests of national security, stability and unity, or if coverage was deemed to be economic sabotage.
Presiding over the system under the proposed Press and Journalist (Amendment) Bill 2010 would be a new Media Council, appointed by the Minister of Information and National Guidance.
According to the new bill publishers would need to show “proof of existence of adequate technical facilities” and the social, cultural and economic values of the newspaper in order to renew licenses.
Journalists on their turn have to prove they are qualified – a degree in journalism, or in another field but accompanied by a post graduate diploma in journalism or mass communications – plus a clean criminal record.
Professor Fredrick Jjuuko, a media law expert says such provisions violate the constitution.