Sandra, Ainebyona.
Rasto Kalanzi, a TikToker residing in Namengo village within Kawolo division, found himself in the confines of Kawolo Prison after the Lugazi Chief Magistrate’s Court, presided over by Magistrate Augustine Aule Koma, sent him on remand on Monday, July 3. The 21 year old was arraigned in court on charges of promoting hate speech through the TikTok platform on June 17, 2023, potentially causing unrest in Kasese district, and disseminating unsolicited information.
Kalanzi, a boda boda rider by profession, was apprehended and detained at Lugazi Central Police Station in Buikwe district following the publication of a TikTok video. The video, which sent shockwaves, saw Kalanzi audaciously claiming to be a member of the notorious Allied Defence Forces (ADF) terrorist organization. Furthermore, he insinuated the involvement of the ADF in the recent raid on a school in Kasese District, resulting in the tragic loss of over 40 lives on June 16, 2023.
During his recent court appearance, Kalanzi pleaded not guilty to the charges brought against him. Filled with remorse, he sought forgiveness from President Yoweri Museveni, security agencies, and the grieving parents who lost their children in the attack. Kalanzi vehemently denied any association with terrorism and confidently stated that he had never set foot in Kasese before.
Kalanzi’s plea for bail fell on deaf ears, as he was unable to produce suitable sureties. The Chief Magistrate observed that he failed to produce substantial sureties to guarantee his continuous attendance of court whenever required. Consequently, he was remanded at Kawolo Prison until July 17, pending further review of his case.
The incident involving Kalanzi has prompted considerable concern among local residents and community leaders. Lugazi Councillor Bill Tomusange, in particular, urged the public to exercise utmost caution when utilizing social media platforms to avoid legal entanglements. He emphasized the crucial need for responsible social media usage and cautioned individuals about the potentially grave consequences of their online actions. Tomusange also highlighted the inherent possibilities for individuals to employ social media as a means of productive engagement, such as promoting products and earning a livelihood.
