Uganda: Ugandan Journalist Remmy Asiteza Detained On 'Fake News' Charges

What the report says

The Committee to Protect Journalists said Ugandan authorities should immediately release journalist Remmy Asiteza after he was charged in connection with reports about alleged corruption involving the ministry of the presidency. According to the article distributed by AllAfrica from CPJ, Asiteza was arrested in Kampala on August 13, appeared in court on August 17, and was remanded to Luzira Prison until September 9.

The charge sheet reviewed by CPJ alleges he published “fake news” and broadcast without a license through Daily Express, the digital outlet he runs. Prosecutors say the disputed July reports falsely claimed corruption in a recruitment process for local government officers and included allegations against Minister of the Presidency Milly Babalanda. Asiteza denied the charges, and CPJ said he appeared in court without legal counsel.

The case adds to broader concern about press freedom in Uganda. CPJ noted a pattern of tighter controls, including censorship and legal action against media workers. It cited recent cases involving commentator Timothy Kalyegira and journalist Arnold Anthony Mukose, who was later released after charges were dropped. In general, media rights groups have long warned that “fake news” provisions can be used to discourage scrutiny of public officials, though that broader context was not specific to this case.