By Akullo Bridget
KAMPALA, February 23, 2024 | Ibrahim Musana, known as Pressure24/7 on TikTok, has been remanded to Luzira Prison on charges of promoting hate speech and spreading malicious information. Musana appeared before Chief Magistrate Ronald Kayizzi at Buganda Road Chief Magistrates Court, where he denied the accusations and was remanded until March 7, 2024.
The accusations against Musana involve allegedly abusing Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi of Buganda Kingdom, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, Speaker of Parliament Annet Anita Among, and State Minister for Information Communication Technology Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo. The state, represented by Ms. Joan Keko, contends that between August 2023 and February 2024, Musana shared information on his TikTok account, identified as Pressure 24/7, that promoted hostility and demeaned these leaders.
Musana, in his plea, apologized to the court and promised to refrain from attacking leaders and delete all hate-speech content from his TikTok account. He expressed unawareness of committing an offense by posting such videos and disclosed his past admission to Butabika mental hospital due to psychological challenges. Musana also mentioned being ‘disturbed’ by Buganda Kingdom’s deceased kings, who purportedly instructed him to repair their tombs but cited financial constraints.
The case has drawn attention to the issue of online hate speech and the responsibility of social media users in promoting responsible behavior. It also highlights the intersection of mental health challenges and digital communication, prompting discussions on how to address such issues effectively. As the case progresses, it is expected to shed light on the boundaries of free speech in the digital age and the consequences of crossing those boundaries.
