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Nyombi Thembo discusses with Saava's family
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Kampala
Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Chief Executive Officer Thembo Nyombi has publicly addressed the arrest and prosecution of online commentator Dean Lubowa Saava, dismissing claims that the case is motivated by personal vendetta and maintaining that it is purely a legal matter.
Nyombi revealed he recently met with members of Saava’s family, who approached him not as legal representatives or activists, but as relatives grappling with the prolonged emotional and social toll of the case.
“I first met Saava in 1995. We have walked similar paths and known each other for decades,” Nyombi said. “But personal history cannot replace or alter the law.” 
‘Not Personal, But Legal’
Nyombi rejected speculation on social media that Saava’s prosecution is retaliation for online criticism directed at him personally.
“In public life, criticism—even harsh criticism—comes with the territory,” he stated. “If personal attacks were enough to justify imprisonment, our prisons would be overflowing.”
He emphasized that once a matter enters the criminal justice system, it ceases to be a personal issue and must be handled by courts and regulators according to the law.
“Goodwill or forgiveness alone cannot resolve criminal matters. Institutions must be allowed to function independently, without being personalized,” Nyombi added.
In custody; Dean Lubowa Saava
How Saava Was Arrested
According to police and court records, Saava was arrested following investigations into content he published on digital platforms, which authorities allege violated Uganda’s communications and cyber laws.
After evidence was compiled, Saava was summoned, taken into custody, processed by police, and arraigned in court, where he was formally charged. He was later remanded as the court considered the charges and ongoing investigations—a legal process that remains under judicial review.
The Human Cost
While defending the legal proceedings, Nyombi acknowledged the often-overlooked human impact of prosecution.
“What struck me most was not the legal debate, but the human reality,” he reflected. “A family under strain, children missing important school moments, and a home feeling the absence of its head.”
With the festive season approaching, Nyombi said he felt compelled in his personal capacity—not as a regulator—to offer a Christmas package to Saava’s family, a gesture he stressed should not be seen as interference in the case.
“This was not a statement on the charges, nor an attempt to influence the process,” he said. “It was a simple act of compassion.”
Nyombi argued that enforcing the law and showing humanity are not mutually exclusive.
“It is possible to enforce the law firmly while still acting with kindness. It is possible to support institutions and recognize pain at the same time,” he noted.
He added that once the case concludes, he remains open to reconciliation and constructive engagement. “Accountability should never close the door to reform or growth,” Nyombi said.
He described the case as neither a victory nor a tragedy, but a reminder that digital platforms carry real responsibility—and that behind every case file are real people and families.
“As leaders, our duty is to protect the public interest while maintaining our humanity,” Nyombi concluded. “Striking that balance is never easy, but it is always necessary.”
Torch Media Africa
