Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Communications Commission has summoned Pastor Robert Kayanja to answer to allegations of misleading the public through distorted facts aired on Miracle Television (Channel 44).
In a directive issued by UCC Executive Director Nyombi Thembo, the regulator ordered the pastor and the station’s management to appear before the Commission following a formal complaint linked to a church service broadcast.
The complaint in question, filed by an unnamed person, alleges that during broadcasts aired on March 19, 20 and 21, 2026, Pastor Kayanja made statements that distorted forensic evidence presented in an ongoing criminal case before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Mengo.
According to the complaint, the televised remarks misrepresented expert evidence, misled the public, and were intended to ridicule defence lawyers involved in the case. It further claims the statements undermined the credibility of forensic testimony and introduced unverified assertions about court proceedings.
The broadcasts, aired as part of a church service programme, are now at the centre of a regulatory probe over compliance with national broadcasting standards.
My Nyombi has since directed Channel 44 to submit recordings of the broadcasts alongside written explanations addressing the allegations by April 27, 2026. Pastor Kayanja has also been summoned to appear at a formal hearing scheduled for April 29, 2026, at UCC House in Bugolobi.
“Channel 44 TV is hereby required to send substantial representative(s)… including Pastor Robert Kayanja,” the directive, dated April 20, states.
The Commission warned that failure to comply with its directives will not halt investigations and may attract regulatory sanctions.
Nyombi emphasised that broadcasters must adhere to minimum standards of accuracy and responsibility, particularly when handling matters connected to ongoing court proceedings. “Section 32 of the Act prohibits the broadcast of any program unless such broadcast… complies with the Minimum Broadcasting Standards,” he stated.
Background to the Case
The alleged misleading broadcast stems from a church service in which Pastor Kayanja reportedly commented on issues tied to an ongoing criminal trial involving individuals previously linked to his ministry.
The case has attracted public attention, particularly due to the role of forensic evidence and competing narratives presented in court.
Media experts note that commentary on active court proceedings carries legal and ethical risks, including potential prejudice to judicial processes and public misinformation.
The probe is expected to test the limits of religious broadcasting and media responsibility in Uganda, especially where content intersects with active legal proceedings.
Efforts to obtain a response from Channel 44 TV and Pastor Kayanja were ongoing by press time.
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