Regional broadcasters, media regulators, and key stakeholders have convened in Mbale to establish guidelines for election coverage ahead of Uganda’s upcoming polls. The meeting aims to ensure accurate, balanced, and transparent reporting during the electoral period.
In an era of abundant information, fair and reliable media coverage is essential for empowering voters and safeguarding democratic processes. Participants discussed practical steps, ethical standards, and strategies to promote balanced reporting while minimizing misinformation and bias.
The gathering emphasized the media’s responsibility in shaping public opinion and guiding voters with credible information. The outcomes of these deliberations are expected to set benchmarks for election reporting in Uganda for years to come.
Key topics included the role of social media, where unverified content spreads rapidly, and the need for clear protocols to monitor and report online information. Civil society organizations also stressed that the media must serve as a bridge between candidates and citizens, avoiding partisan influence or propaganda.
Transparency, accountability, and fairness emerged as guiding principles throughout the discussions. Broadcasters were urged to present diverse perspectives, ensuring that the electorate is well-informed to make independent decisions at the ballot box.
The decisions taken at the Mbale meeting are likely to have far-reaching implications for Uganda’s democratic process, influencing how voters access and interpret information during the election period.
