Next Media Group has firmly responded to the legal notice from Isaac Ssemakadde’s lawyers, who had threatened to sue over the broadcast of "BANG THE GOLD: RADICAL NEW GOLD SCAM" aired on May 5, 2025.
The media company, represented by its legal team, has dared Ssemakadde’s legal representatives to proceed with the lawsuit.
In the official letter, Next Media's lawyers, led by Obadia Ismail, expressed their position with the phrase, "PLEASE SUE!"
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They dismissed the claims made by Ssemakadde’s team, challenging the accusations of defamation, fraud, and conspiracy aired during the controversial report.
The response, which was sent to Mukibi & Kyeyune Advocates, Ssemakadde’s legal counsel, contains a pointed challenge to take the matter to court.
The legal back-and-forth began after Next Media broadcast the investigative piece, which Ssemakadde’s team insists includes defamatory and false statements about him.
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The complaint from Mukibi & Kyeyune Advocates outlined several grievances, including the unlawful use of personal information, the misrepresentation of their client’s image, and the publication of what they argue is misleading content.
Among the demands laid out by Ssemakadde’s legal team was a hefty Shs11 billion (approximately USD 3 million) in compensation for the reputational harm, emotional distress, and financial losses they claim their client has suffered as a result of the broadcast.
Additionally, they called for an immediate cessation of any further broadcasts of the offending content, as well as a full retraction and public apology across all Next Media platforms, including during prime time broadcasts.
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Despite the claims, Next Media remains resolute. The media group, in their response, invoked a legal principle, "Actori incumbit onus probandi," which suggests that the burden of proof lies with the party making the accusation.
In this case, Next Media is calling on Ssemakadde's lawyers to prove their allegations in court.
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The back-and-forth between the two parties is expected to escalate, and the outcome could have significant implications for both the media house and the reputation of Isaac Ssemakadde.
As the dispute continues, Next Media has reiterated their readiness for a courtroom battle, as they believe the claims made against them are unfounded. They have also warned Ssemakadde's legal team that their client is fully prepared to take legal action to defend their honour.