Male Deogratius : Uganda Journalists Association Release Statement On Beaten Journalist

The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has issued a strong condemnation following the brutal attack on Male Deogratius, also known as Omusawo Tintah, a journalist working with Hoima Post and Metro FM. The assault occurred late Monday night, April 15, 2024, near Deogratius’ residence on Kubadongo, Salama Road in the Makindye Division of Kampala.

Male Deogratius, who is currently receiving medical care at Good Samaritan Clinic in Makindye, suffered significant injuries during the attack, including difficulties in breathing, and pain in his back, head, and hands. According to Deogratius Male , the assailants, who did not steal anything, repeatedly questioned him about the sources of his funding and his motivation to write articles advocating for human rights. They ominously warned him to cease his activities or face further danger to himself and his family.

Deogratius also revealed to UJA that he has been the recipient of numerous threatening messages urging him to abandon his human rights work. These threats and the physical attack are being viewed by UJA as not only criminal acts but also as grave violations of press freedom, protected under Articles 29 and 40 of the 1995 Constitution of Uganda.

UJA spokesperson and Secretary for Information, Kabuye Ronald, expressed deep concern over the incident, emphasizing that journalists like Deogratius are often targeted because they represent a voice for the voiceless and insist on accountability. Ronald stated, “This attack is a direct assault on press freedom and we demand immediate action to bring those responsible to justice.”

The association is calling for a thorough investigation into the incident, underscoring the need to address the frequent violence faced by journalists who are increasingly seen as undesirable witnesses in their efforts to report on critical issues.