Next Media’s Corporate Affairs Manager, Desire Derekford Mugumisa, has confirmed the suspension of two prominent journalists, Zambaali Bulasio Mukasa and Victoria Bagaaya, following their public declaration of political ambitions.
Speculation about their suspension had been circulating for days, but the media house has now officially validated these claims, emphasizing its strict policy on political involvement for employees.
Mukasa and Bagaaya’s Political Aspirations
Zambaali Mukasa, who joined NBS TV in 2019 from CBS, has been a familiar face as the news anchor for Amasengejje and the host of the popular political talk show Barometer, which airs every Tuesday. His decision to join politics comes as he sets his sights on the Nansana Municipality MP seat under the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket.
On the other hand, Victoria Bagaaya has been with NBS since 2014, starting as a presenter on a youth-centered program before transitioning into a news anchor and reporter. She has now declared her candidacy for the Woman MP seat in Fort Portal City.
Next Media’s Stance on Political Engagement
Mugumisa took to X (formerly Twitter) to reaffirm Next Media’s commitment to journalistic independence and non-partisanship, making it clear that the company does not allow employees to engage in active politics while remaining on air.
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“When any @nextmediaug staff member chooses to run for political office, the company policy is clear: Next Media lets them be and supports them in that regard. Zambaali, like Victoria, have made their political bids clear and are BOTH no longer on air.”
He further explained that this policy is crucial for maintaining journalistic integrity, emphasizing that partisan politics within the media house is not tolerated.
“For @nextmediaug as an independent media house, non-partisanship is essential for us to effectively Inform to Transform. These same policies have led to various levels of reprimands for those of us engaging in partisan politics.”
This latest development has sparked mixed reactions, with some supporting the enforcement of journalistic ethics, while others argue that media professionals should have the right to pursue political aspirations without losing their jobs.
