Politics Blamed as UCC Suspends Rukungiri’s Boona FM

Politics Blamed as UCC Suspends Rukungiri’s Boona FM.

Boona FM, a popular radio station in Rukungiri, has gone off air after the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) ordered a suspension of its operations. The station, which broadcasts on 91.8 FM, announced that it would stop airing at midnight in compliance with the directive issued in July.

The announcement was made through the station’s official X account and facebook . In a brief statement, management told listeners, “Dear Boona FM Family, this is to inform you that starting tonight at 12:00 AM, Boona FM 91.8 will suspend its operations until further notice, in compliance with the UCC directive issued in July 2025.”

Reports suggest that the suspension stems from accusations that the station violated the Minimum Broadcasting Standards. The spotlight has fallen on a dispute between Boona FM manager, Namanya Kakyene Santurina, and Rtd. Maj. Gen. Jim Muhwezi, the Minister of Security and Member of Parliament for Rujumbura County. Muhwezi, who also owns another radio station, is said to have played a role in the decision.

Kakyene has denied any wrongdoing and insists the closure is politically motivated. “This decision was influenced, and I was not given a chance to defend myself,” he said.

The development has stirred debate about media freedom and the level of political interference in private broadcasting.

On X, several Ugandans reacted to the news with mixed feelings. “Dear UCC, let’s resolve the issue amicably. We can’t create unemployment deliberately. Why should journalists suffer in every corner of this nation,” wrote John Kyobe.

Another listener, Talent Atwine, argued that standards must still be respected. “Much as I pray that my home station is opened again, the journalistic standards of broadcasting must be upheld, without compromise.”

For many, the biggest worry is the impact on workers. “With the current levels of unemployment in Uganda and you wake up to find such news when you are among the workers, it is painful. Prayers to Boona FM employees,” said Sayid Nyesiga.

Politics Blamed as UCC Suspends Rukungiri’s Boona FM.