Security operatives have allegedly arrested nine Ugandan journalists, including author and activist Norman Tumuhimbise for ‘offensive communication’.
“Police got a complaint the group was involved in offensive communication and promoting hate speech.
“They are with the police at the Special Investigations Unit in Kireka as investigations are continuing,” Fred Enanga, Uganda police spokesman, told newsmen.
Those arrested include Executive Director Tumuhimbise Norman, Mukose Arnold (Programs Director), Faridah Bikobere (TV host), Jeremiah Mukiibi (Producer), Tumusiime Kato (Production), Tulyahabwe Roger (Production), Nabukeera Teddy Teangle (presenter), Lillian Luwedde (presenter) and Wabyona Jeje Jacob (intern).
The journalists, who make up part of a media platform called Alternative Digitalk TV, which is headed by Tumuhimbise, were reportedly put into a van by armed security last Friday.
“We condemn the action by the Ugandan Government to harass and arbitrary arrest journalists. This is creating an environment where the media has to operate in an intimidating atmosphere,” said Mugambi Kiai, Article 19 Eastern Africa Regional Director.
This comes barely a month after Ugandan novelist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija was arrested on grounds for insulting President Yoweri Museveni and his son.
Meanwhile, Press Leaders have called on authorities in Ethiopia to release all detained Journalists who are have been arrested in the East-African country.