news 9 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Ugandans Rally Behind Dr. Spire Ssentongo After Shs30 Million Contempt Fine
A wave of online support has emerged for satirical cartoonist and human rights advocate Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo after a High Court ordered him to pay Shs30 million or face three months in civil prison. The ruling stems from a contempt of court charge related to a public post about a tuition dispute with Kampala International University (KIU). Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ugandans-on-x-rally-to-save-dr-spire-following-shs30m-contempt-fine-5551694
Social media platforms, particularly X (formerly Twitter), are buzzing with activity as Ugandans unite to support Dr. Jimmy Spire Ssentongo. The academic, known for his satirical cartoons and advocacy for human rights, was recently ordered by the High Court to pay a substantial fine of Shs30 million, with the alternative of a three-month jail sentence, for alleged contempt of court.
The legal battle originated from a post Dr. Ssentongo made in March 2026 concerning a tuition refund issue his late brother’s sons faced with Kampala International University (KIU). He detailed how his nephews allegedly paid significant tuition fees, attempted to transfer them, and faced continued demands from the university despite promises.
KIU subsequently filed an application to have Dr. Ssentongo committed for contempt, citing a December 2025 court order that prohibited him from publishing defamatory content about the institution. The High Court registrar ruled that Dr. Ssentongo had violated this order, leading to the imposition of the Shs30 million fine, which includes Shs20 million in damages and legal costs.
The court’s decision has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, including human rights defenders and political figures, who view it as an attempt to silence a critical public voice. Lawyer Eron Kiiza described the ruling as a “gag order dressed in legal robes” and an attack on freedom of expression.
In response to the outpouring of support, a fundraising drive was quickly launched online to help Dr. Ssentongo meet the financial penalty. The initiative has seen a swift response, with significant funds raised in its initial stages. Political leaders, such as Robert Kyagulanyi (Bobi Wine), have also called for public solidarity, urging citizens to support Dr. Ssentongo’s efforts to hold powerful institutions accountable.
Legal analysts are closely watching the case, with many urging Dr. Ssentongo’s legal team to appeal the ruling, emphasizing the potential implications for public interest advocacy and consumer rights in Uganda.
Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)