Gulu, Uganda | The growing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to generate manipulated images and videos has once again come under scrutiny after the Woman MP for Kitgum District and Minister of State for Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees, Aber Lillian, and Northern Uganda hip-hop artiste Kilara Dan, popularly known as Judas Rap Knowledge Da Akbar, publicly objected to AI-generated content linking them.
The two leaders issued separate statements over the weekend distancing themselves from digitally altered posts and videos circulating on social media platforms.
Ms Aber said the material, which pairs her image with that of the musician in fabricated scenarios, was created without her consent and had crossed acceptable boundaries.
She clarified that she had only met the artiste once during a public event at Kaunda Grounds in Gulu and has no personal relationship with him.
The minister urged social media users to exercise restraint and responsibility, calling for a shift toward constructive online engagement.
“Let us use social media responsibly and redirect our conversations toward issues that build our communities and strengthen our nation,” she said.
On his part, Judas Rap Knowledge Da Akbar condemned the unauthorized use of his image alongside that of the minister in AI-generated visuals, describing the trend as inappropriate and disrespectful.
While acknowledging the rapid advancement of AI technologies, the artiste warned against misuse that could harm reputations.
“Those few videos should be taken down because it is inappropriate,” he said, adding that he regretted any discomfort caused and extended an apology to the minister.
The episode has reignited debate about digital ethics and the regulation of AI-generated content in Uganda, particularly as public figures increasingly become targets of manipulated material shared for entertainment, satire, or misinformation.
Legal experts have previously warned that the misuse of AI tools without consent could expose creators to civil liability under laws governing defamation, cyber harassment, and privacy violations.
With the rapid spread of AI tools, stakeholders say enhanced public awareness and more robust regulatory measures are crucial to uphold individual rights while fostering responsible technological progress.
