A popular TikToker, Jinjo Nassif, has been arrested for circulating false information about the death of Hon. Yusuf Nsibambi, the Member of Parliament for Mawokota South, raising concerns about the spread of misinformation on social media.
Reports indicate that Nassif allegedly received Shs 100,000 from political opponents of Nsibambi to post the fake news on his social media platforms. The payment was reportedly intended to tarnish the MP’s reputation during a politically sensitive period.
Hon. Nsibambi immediately reported the matter to the police, leading to Nassif’s arrest under the Computer Misuse Act, which targets online offenses, including spreading false information meant to defame or mislead the public. During questioning, Nassif confessed to the crime, admitting he had deliberately shared the false news at the behest of political rivals.
Nassif is currently held at the Central Police Station in Kampala as investigations continue. The Kampala Metropolitan Police, through spokesperson P. Onyango, reminded the public to use social media responsibly and warned that spreading misinformation not only harms reputations but can also have legal consequences. Police emphasized that accepting money to damage someone’s image online constitutes a criminal offense.
The incident highlights the growing risks of misinformation during political campaigns. False reports can spread rapidly, creating confusion, fear, and tension in communities. Observers say Nassif’s arrest sends a strong warning to others considering using social media to manipulate public opinion or target political figures.
Authorities urge the public to verify information before sharing it online and remain vigilant against political propaganda. The case of Jinjo Nassif serves as a stark reminder of the legal and social consequences of spreading false news in the digital age.
