Lawyer Ssemakadde Threatens to Sue Next Media Over Investigative Report

Prominent lawyer and rights activist Isaac Ssemakadde has issued a notice of intention to sue Next Media Group over a broadcast he says is defamatory and damaging to his reputation.

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Through his legal representatives, Mukiibi & Kyeyune Advocates, Ssemakadde is demanding an immediate retraction and public apology following the airing of an NBS Investigates program titled “Bang the Gold: Radical New Gold Scam” on May 5, 2025. The program, which was broadcast across all Next Media platforms, allegedly linked Ssemakadde to a gold-related fraud scheme without sufficient evidence or factual backing.

In a formal legal notice addressed to Next Media CEO Kin Kariisa, Ssemakadde accuses the media house of spreading falsehoods, unlawfully using copyrighted content, and publishing confidential materials—including a bank statement and private telephone conversations—without consent.

‎The letter outlines seven specific grievances, including the publication of speculative claims, misappropriation of Ssemakadde’s image for sensational purposes, and what his lawyers call the “dissemination of a malicious narrative intended to tarnish his reputation.”

‎In addition to demanding a public apology broadcast during prime time and posted across all Next Media platforms, Ssemakadde is seeking USD 3 million in compensatory and punitive damages. He also wants an immediate halt to any further publication or rebroadcast of the report, and the preservation of all evidence related to the story—including internal communications and raw footage.

“If you fail to comply within 14 days, we shall pursue legal proceedings for compensation, injunctive relief, and a court-ordered retraction,” the notice warns.

Ssemakadde, known for his outspoken criticism of government excesses and his activism for civil liberties, has not publicly commented beyond the legal move. However, the letter indicates a firm intention to hold media houses accountable for what he sees as reckless and defamatory journalism.