DEAN SAAVA’S JOURNEY FROM DEFIANCE TO CONVICTION

FEBRUARY 25, 2026 – What began as a routine compliance matter between the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) and an online broadcaster, Mr. Dean Saava Lubowa, quickly escalated into formal legal proceedings, culminating in his prosecution and conviction recently.

This case underscores the fundamental importance of complying with the law and upholding respect for regulatory institutions and the rule of law.

Mr. Saava, proprietor of the online platform TV10 – Gano Mazima, was charged in October 2025 with unlawful broadcasting after investigations established that, since November 2018, he had installed and operated a broadcasting facility without a licence issued by UCC, contrary to the provisions of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103.

In addition to operating without authorisation, Mr. Saava was found to have aired content in breach of the Minimum Broadcasting Standards. The Commission had received a series of complaints alleging defamation, as well as the use of his platform to blackmail and intimidate public officials.

Despite a formal directive issued by the Commission requiring him to cease operations and regularise his status, Mr. Saava continued to broadcast in open defiance of the law, necessitating enforcement action.

An enforcement operation was then carried out at his premises and he was later arrested and charged before the wildlife and Utilities Court in Makindye.

Mr. Saava pleaded guilty to all the communications-related offences committed in contravention of the Uganda Communications Act, Cap 103 and other applicable laws and regulations.

Specifically, Saava pleaded guilty to the following offences:

1. Installing and operating online TV Broadcasting Apparatus without a License issued by the Uganda Communications Commission, contrary to Section 27 (1) and (3) of the Uganda Communications Act Cap 103.
2. Broadcasting Without a Broadcasting Licence Contrary to Section 28(1) and (2) of the Uganda Communications Act Cap 103.
3. Disobeying Lawful Orders of the Commission contrary to Regulation 46 of the Uganda Communications (Content) Regulations 2019.

Accordingly, the Chief Magistrate of the Standards, Utilities and Wildlife Court at Makindye, Gladys Kamasanyu, sentenced him as follows: on Count I, to a fine of UGX 3,000,000 or one year’s imprisonment; on Count II, to a fine of UGX 500,000 or one year’s imprisonment; and on Count III, to a fine of UGX 500,000 or six months’ imprisonment, or both.

In addition, Mr. Saava forfeited all equipment (exhibits) – 45 in number that were seized from the offices and studio of TV10 – Gano Mazima in Lungujja, Kyobe Zone, Rubaga, Kampala. The forfeited equipment is to be disposed of by the Uganda Communications Commission in accordance with the law.

This case serves as a clear reminder to all illegal broadcasters and individuals who misuse communication platforms that dissemination of content in contravention of the law carries serious consequences, including custodial sentences and forfeiture of equipment.

Summary of Facts

Between November 2018 and 26th September 2025, at Lungujja, Kyobe Zone, Rubaga Division, Kampala District, Mr. Dean Lubowa Saava and others still at large installed and operated broadcasting apparatus and provided broadcasting services under the name TV10 – Gano Mazima without a licence issued by the Uganda Communications Commission.

During this period, several complainants petitioned the Commission, alleging that the accused had broadcast defamatory content and seeking regulatory intervention.

Following repeated warnings, which he failed to heed, the Commission instituted criminal proceedings against him. An enforcement operation, supported by the Uganda Police Force, was conducted at his premises on 29th August 2025.

Subsequently, on 10th September 2025, the Commission convened a meeting with the accused, during which he was informed of the Commission’s decision dated 22nd August 2025. He was directed to immediately cease illegal broadcasting, obtain the requisite licence, and comply with the Minimum Broadcasting Standards and the law generally. However, he disregarded these directives and continued broadcasting, while also insulting and blackmailing the Commission’s leadership.

Following several months in detention, and in mitigation at sentencing, it was submitted that the convict appeared remorseful and undertook to reform and refrain from engaging in illegal broadcasting in the future. Dean Saava agreed to first obtain a license for his operations before going back on air.