TikToker Remanded to Luzira Over Alleged Defamation of ESO Boss
TikToker Remanded to Luzira Over Alleged Defamation of ESO Boss
Ugandan TikToker Benson Muyingo, widely known by his online moniker Benson Pro, has been remanded to Luzira Prison over allegations of spreading harmful propaganda against the Director General of the External Security Organisation (ESO), Joseph Ocwet.
Muyingo, 32, a digital content creator appeared before the Buganda Road Chief Magistrate’s Court, where he was charged under the Computer Misuse Act for allegedly using social media to defame a senior government official.
According to prosecution, Benson Pro published a TikTok video in which he directly accused Ocwet of involvement in a land grabbing incident in Kasenyi Bendegere.
In the video, he claimed, “Wuno boss wa ESO in land grabbing and fraudulent at Kasenyi Bendegere,” which translates to “This is the ESO boss involved in land grabbing and fraud at Kasenyi Bendegere.”
Authorities say the video was intended to tarnish the image of Ocwet, a high-ranking public servant entrusted with sensitive national security duties.
While appearing in court, Benson Pro’s application for bail was denied due to the absence of the State Attorney.
As a result, he was remanded to Luzira Prison until August 12, when his case is expected to return to court for further hearing.
The arrest has triggered debate among his followers and digital rights activists, with some arguing that the state is cracking down on critical voices online.
Benson Pro has built a substantial following for his often blunt, politically charged commentary, which frequently critiques government operations and public figures.
This case adds to the growing list of Ugandans prosecuted under the Computer Misuse Act, a law that has been criticised by human rights groups for curbing freedom of expression in the digital space.
If convicted, Benson Pro faces possible imprisonment for offences related to spreading false, malicious, or defamatory content via electronic communication platforms.
