Residents in various parts of western Uganda’s Ankole Sub-region, who had anticipated tuning in to hear National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, were left disappointed as a radio station he was scheduled to appear on went off the air.
Yesterday, Mr. Kyagulanyi was scheduled to be a guest on Endigyito Radio 88.3 fm in Mbarara City. However, shortly after his arrival at the station around 11.45 am for a midday talk show, the radio signal suddenly went silent, leaving many eager listeners perplexed.
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Many individuals expressed their frustration at the unexpected disruption. Mr. Moses Katusiime, a motorcycle taxi rider, shared that he had intended to listen to Bobi Wine’s radio appearance but was met with silence upon tuning in.
Mr. Joseph Musinguzi, another listener, voiced his disappointment, highlighting the significance of allowing speakers to share their views to make informed decisions.
According to Mr. Bonny Maridadi, the radio manager, the station had been receiving signals, but some listeners reported a blackout in specific areas. Investigations were initiated to uncover the cause of this disruption.
This isn’t the first time Mr. Kyagulanyi has encountered such incidents. In the past, he has faced interference, including attempts by state agents to prevent his radio appearances.
During a subsequent rally at Global High School, Bobi Wine addressed the situation, stating that the ruling regime aims to keep people uninformed. He thanked the people of Mbarara for remaining steadfast and stressed the power of truth in the face of fear.
Mr. Kyagulanyi reminisced about past incidents, particularly the violence that occurred during the 2020 campaign, where more than 200 individuals lost their lives.
Mbarara Resident City Commissioner, Mr. James Mwesigye, refuted claims that his office was responsible for the signal disruption. He mentioned that the event proceeded without major issues.
While the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) oversees broadcasting regulations in Uganda, the Director for Corporate Affairs, Mr. Fred Otunnu, stated that the UCC had no prior knowledge of the signal interference incident.
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