By Spy Uganda
The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development has summoned social media personality Ms. Chosen Becky, also known as Rebecca Kukiriza, over allegations of involving children in a controversial publicity act during a private wedding ceremony held earlier this week.
In a formal statement issued on Tuesday, the Ministry said it had taken note of widely circulated images and reports from a wedding ceremony held on December 15, in which children were allegedly used to carry placards bearing messages directed at adults. Authorities say the act may have exposed the children to emotional harm, public controversy, and online exploitation.
While emphasizing respect for privacy, family life, and freedom of expression, the Ministry stressed that children must never be used as instruments in adult disputes, publicity stunts, or social media controversies.
“Children are innocent, vulnerable, and entitled to protection, dignity, and care, regardless of disagreements between adults,” the statement reads.
According to the Ministry, the alleged conduct raises serious concerns under Ugandan law, particularly the Children Act (Cap. 59) and the Data Protection and Privacy Act, 2019.
The Children Act provides that the best interests of the child must be the paramount consideration in all actions involving children, and guarantees protection from emotional, psychological, and social abuse, as well as harmful publicity.
Additionally, the Data Protection and Privacy Act restricts the collection, processing, and publication of children’s personal data and images, especially in circumstances that may cause harm or are undertaken without lawful justification.
The Ministry warned that the publication and circulation of images of children in controversial contexts—particularly on social media platforms—may constitute violations of these laws.
Ms. Chosen Becky has been directed to appear before the Office of the State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs at the Ministry’s offices on Tuesday, December 23, 2025, for a formal engagement regarding the matter.
Expected Actions
At the meeting, the Ministry expects the influencer to:
- Formally withdraw the alleged actions involving children;
- Issue a public apology acknowledging that children should not be involved in adult disagreements or controversial messaging;
- Provide a written commitment not to involve children in personal, marital, or social disputes, both online and offline;
- Immediately delete and facilitate the removal of all social media content linked to the controversy that involves children.
The Ministry also issued a general warning to public figures, artists, influencers, and socialites, reminding them that children’s rights are protected by law and that popularity or celebrity status does not exempt anyone from complying with child protection laws.
“The Ministry will not hesitate to take appropriate legal and administrative action against any individual found misusing children for publicity or content that undermines their welfare,” the statement cautioned.
The statement, signed by Mr. Barugahara Balaam Ateenyi, Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs, reaffirmed the Government of Uganda’s commitment to safeguarding the rights, dignity, and best interests of every child.
