Veteran journalist Timothy Kalyegira has denied two charges of broadcasting without a licence before the Kira Chief Magistrate’s Court.
Kalyegira, also known as Nyakahuma, appeared in court on Monday following investigations by Kira Division Police under Criminal Reference Book 475/2026.
The 58-year-old resident of Kira Municipality in Wakiso District is accused of operating two media platforms without a broadcasting licence from the Uganda Communications Commission.
The charges were prepared by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Two Platforms Named in Charge Sheet
Prosecutors allege that Kalyegira operated The Kampala Express without the required licence.
The charge sheet describes The Kampala Express as a video production and media consulting platform.
The first count alleges that between 2013 and 2026, Kalyegira broadcast content through the platform without authorisation from the communications regulator.
Under the second count, prosecution alleges that he operated The Uganda Records, an online publication platform, without the mandatory UCC licence.
The charge sheet states that between 2014 and 2026, Kalyegira broadcast content through The Uganda Records in several parts of Uganda, including Kampala and Wakiso districts.
Charges Filed Under Uganda Communications Act
Both charges were brought under Section 28(1) and (2) of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103.
The law requires broadcasters to obtain licences from the Uganda Communications Commission before providing broadcasting services.
When the charges were read to him, Kalyegira denied both counts.
The prosecution did not immediately disclose details of the evidence it intends to rely on during trial.
Case Draws Media Attention
The case comes amid increased regulatory scrutiny of online media platforms and digital broadcasters in Uganda.
Authorities have maintained that entities engaged in broadcasting services must comply with licensing requirements set under the law.
Kalyegira is a veteran journalist and commentator who has worked with several media organisations.
He also publishes content through online platforms.
The case has attracted attention in media circles, with journalists and free-expression advocates raising questions about its possible implications for online publishers and independent digital media platforms in Uganda.
