Ugandan journalist groups have come together to announce a boycott of all activities related to security agencies in protest against recent violence directed at media professionals.
This decision follows an incident during the Kawempe North by-election, where journalists from Nation Media Group and Next Media were assaulted, injured, and had their equipment confiscated by security forces.
The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA), Uganda Parliament Press Association (UPPA), Uganda Sports Press Association (USPA), and Human Rights Network for Journalists in Uganda (HRNJ) have strongly condemned the actions, calling on the government to uphold press freedom and protect the safety of journalists.
The European Union has also expressed concern, condemning the violence and urging Ugandan authorities to safeguard journalists’ rights.
In response, Chris Magezi, Acting Defence Public Information Officer, acknowledged the allegations and announced that an investigation had been launched into the incidents.
Magezi assured that those responsible would face legal consequences, but journalist organisations remain doubtful. They point to a long-standing pattern of violence and intimidation against the press in Uganda, raising concerns about the effectiveness of any investigations or accountability.
