By our reporter.
NRM Radio (Voice of Kampala FM) Officially Launched, Sparks Debate Over Media Neutrality
Kampala, Uganda | September 17, 2025
A new radio station branded as Voice of Kampala FM, commonly referred to as NRM Radio, has officially been launched in Kampala. The station, which aligns itself with the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), is already sparking debate over media independence, political messaging, and the future of Uganda’s broadcasting landscape.
The launch event drew attention from both political commentators and media observers, as the station openly positions itself to support the NRM government and its ideology. According to internal sources, Voice of Kampala FM will focus on broadcasting news, policy updates, music, and talk shows centered on national development themes through an NRM lens.
Media entrepreneur Nyanzi Martin Luther, who has been linked to the station’s formation, made public comments during the launch, distancing himself from direct political alignment. “I am not a political person,” Nyanzi said. “I support all sides equally. My goal is to provide platforms for communication — not to take sides.” His remarks appear intended to address growing concerns about increasing political polarization within Uganda’s media space.
The rise of Voice of Kampala FM comes at a time when the Ugandan media environment is under scrutiny for its relationship with political parties. Several outlets in recent years have faced criticism for either government bias or opposition alignment, with concerns that such divides weaken the role of media as an independent public watchdog.
While NRM supporters have welcomed the launch, calling it a long-overdue move to ensure government voices are better represented in media discourse, others argue that the trend could further erode journalistic neutrality.
“This station may help the ruling party communicate its agenda more directly,” said political analyst James Lwanga, “but it also raises questions about access, funding, and whether such platforms will tolerate diverse or critical viewpoints.”
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) has not yet issued a public statement regarding the licensing or regulatory expectations for the new station. However, legal experts caution that all political broadcasting stations must adhere to equal coverage provisions under Uganda’s media laws, especially during election cycles.
Additionally, Voice of Kampala FM’s arrival reignites debate over public media funding. Some civil society organizations have previously called for greater transparency in how media houses with political ties receive operational support, especially if state resources are involved.
Despite the controversy, the station is already active on air and social media. Programming includes discussions on national development, youth mobilization, agricultural policy, and recorded speeches by government officials.
For now, Voice of Kampala FM adds a new voice to an increasingly complex and politically charged media environment. Whether it will contribute to informed civic engagement or deepen partisan divides remains to be seen as Uganda approaches another cycle of national debate and reform.
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