Court Orders Journalist to Pay Shs100 Million for Defaming Deputy IGG

High Court Judge Joyce Kavuma has ruled that journalist Dean Lubowa Saava, known for his TikTok platform TV10 Gano Mazima, must pay Shs100 million to Deputy Inspector General of Government (DIGG) Anne Twinomugisha Muhairwe. The judgment, delivered on June 24, 2026, found Lubowa guilty of defaming Muhairwe through false accusations of corruption and misconduct.

The case stemmed from a series of TikTok videos published in July 2025. In these broadcasts, Lubowa alleged that Muhairwe had accepted Shs200 million in bribes related to the Kaabong road project and accused her of misappropriating wetland funds, deeming her unfit for her anti-corruption role.

Lubowa also claimed that the DIGG had demanded money from project engineers and sent an aide to collect it. However, Muhairwe vehemently denied all allegations, stating she had never visited Kaabong District nor been involved in any such transactions. Her testimony was corroborated by Ombudsman Affairs Director Kakooza Savio Ntensibe, who clarified he was not her personal assistant and had never collected money on her behalf.

The court noted that Lubowa failed to appear or file a defense despite proper service, leading to an ex parte judgment. Justice Kavuma highlighted that Lubowa had previously admitted in a criminal plea bargain that his information about the DIGG was false. The judge stated that Lubowa’s continued publication of these claims, despite warnings, demonstrated malice and recklessness.

While Muhairwe sought Shs300 million, the court awarded Shs100 million in general damages due to the severity of the accusations, the wide reach of the TikTok platform (over 300,000 followers), and Lubowa’s lack of apology or defense. A permanent injunction was also issued, prohibiting further defamatory remarks and ordering Lubowa to issue a public apology on his TikTok channel. He must also cover the costs of the suit.