Ugandan authorities have detained a TikTok user accused of inciting violence against backers of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) as the country gears up for the January 14 general elections.
Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced the arrest on Monday, branding the unnamed individual a “terrorist.” The move follows viral videos where the man called for a “protest vote” — a rallying cry popularized by National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine) to oppose the ruling party at the ballot box.
In the clips, the suspect vowed to hunt down NRM supporters in their residences and cause them harm. He also cautioned that any businesses staying open during planned protests might face repercussions.
The arrest came swiftly after the footage spread online, with Gen. Muhoozi posting on X (formerly Twitter): “We have captured this terrorist today. He said people who support NRM should be killed. He is going to pay for his crimes.”
This case adds to a growing list of social media influencers facing legal action for alleged hate speech and misinformation in Uganda.
Just last month, 20-year-old Edison Ssemugenyi received a six-month prison term after admitting to disseminating false information via TikTok. He had falsely claimed President Museveni was bedridden and insulted Gen. Muhoozi.
In 2024, Edward Awebwa was convicted of hate speech and spreading “misleading and malicious” details about President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni, and Gen. Muhoozi.
Awebwa’s posts included unfounded claims about tax hikes under the President, leading to a six-year sentence for presidential insults.
These incidents highlight escalating scrutiny on online content amid political tensions, with authorities emphasizing the need to curb threats and falsehoods during election periods.
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