Electronic Media Coverage of Political Activities in Uganda (2012-2013) The Broadcasting Operation Boundaries A Case Study Of Ubc Radio

Introduction This chapter deals with the introduction, background to the study, problem statement, scope of the study, its significance and the conceptual frame work to show the dependent and independent variables. 1.1 Background Information to the Study The coverage of political activities in Uganda has undergone several challenges. There was a major point in the politics of Uganda when Amin was the ruler for 8 years (1971- 1979). This period saw the political process collapse. Amins regime used fear and terror as central instruments of policy and media control. A large number of journalists and politicians lost their lives. It is sad to note that even today there are situations where journalists who have given chance to the opposition to air out their views have been arrested. This brings us to the fact that there is need to put in place independent regulatory frameworks to promote the growth of a strong, free and diverse broadcasting sector that serves the public interest. It should be noted that Uganda Broadcasting Corporation (UBC) tends to host politicians who are vying for different political posts in the country. Unfortunately, the Government of Uganda has failed to award this media house total freedom when it comes to its programming. Ugandans would love to hear from candidates of various parties but the platform is only awarded to’ those that belong to the ruling party. Hosting of an opposition candidate like Besigye of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) can cause the termination of a journalist’s contract with UBC. This is in contradiction with the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which guarantees freedom of expression to all mankind.