The President of the Uganda Law Society (ULS), Isaac Ssemakadde, has issued a formal notice of intention to sue NBS Television and its parent company, Next Media Group, demanding $3 million in damages over what he calls a defamatory investigative broadcast aired on May 5, 2025.
In a strongly worded letter delivered by his legal representatives, Kyeyune Advocates & Solicitors, Ssemakadde accuses NBS of broadcasting false and damaging allegations linking him to a fraudulent gold scheme involving an American national.
The broadcast, titled “Bang the Gold: Radical New Gold Scam”, was disseminated across Next Media’s platforms, including TV, radio, apps, websites, and social media. The report has since sparked public debate, but Ssemakadde contends it was riddled with inaccuracies and speculative claims that have severely impacted his reputation, emotional wellbeing, and professional prospects.
“This #NBSInvestigates report contains false, defamatory, and damaging allegations against our client, accusing him of conspiracy and fraud without substantiation,” reads part of the letter. “These actions have caused significant reputational harm, emotional distress, and financial loss.”
Ssemakadde’s legal team outlined several grievances, including:
Publication of unverified and defamatory claims.
Unauthorized use of copyrighted materials.
Illegal access to private financial and communication records.
Misappropriation of his image and voice.
Dissemination of confidential police and bank information.
To resolve the matter without resorting to litigation, Ssemakadde is demanding:
A full retraction and public apology aired on all Next Media platforms,Payment of $3 million in damages,Immediate cessation of all broadcasts and publications related to the report and preservation of all related materials and communications for possible court proceedings.
The letter warns that failure to comply within 14 days will result in legal action seeking punitive and compensatory damages, injunctive relief, and a court-mandated retraction.
The rebel army on X dubbed NBS the National Bullshit Station with many of the calling the whole broadcast an orchestrated witch hunt against Senior Counsel Isaac Ssemakadde.
This legal challenge could mark a significant turning point in Ugandan media-law relations, especially concerning investigative journalism and individual rights.