SECTOR 2 “Politicians do not prescribe what should go in. The professional team debates issues, and decides on the merit of the story.” The paper has an editorial policy, which, in line with Section 19 of the New Vision Printing and Publishing Act, allows the paper to be critical of, but not antagonistic to the government. Specifically, Section 19(b) states that in carrying out its functions, New Vision may “voice public opinion and criticisms of a given Government policy in a fair and objective manner, without becoming an institutional opponent to the Government or its interests”. “This means that if we have all the facts correct, we can publish. We can write anything provided that the facts are there, and you are able to defend it. Some people have even been surprised by the types of stories that we run.” New Vision has also attempted to remain impartial in its election coverage and prior to the elections, engaged the major candidates and agreed to give them all space. Teams were also attached to the three major candidates in the election. Panellists also noted that, “Political interference happens everywhere,” and not only within the state media. Scores: Individual scores: 1 Country does not meet indicator 2 Country meets only a few aspects of indicator 3 Country meets some aspects of indicator 4 Country meets most aspects of indicator 5 Country meets all aspects of the indicator Average score: 3.1 (2012 = 3.3; 2010 = 2.8; 2007 = 2.8) 2.4 Transparency of ownership of media houses in print/broadcasting is guaranteed by law and enforced. The ownership of media houses is generally transparent, and if the media house is listed as a company, ownership information can be accessed directly at the company registry. “There are no restrictions to stop you from accessing this information,” and “People (are) generally aware of who owns what media.” “The information is easy to get. The only challenge would be if the registered owner is not the actual owner.” AFRICAN MEDIA BAROMETER UGANDA 2016 37