Male Deogratius : The Cost of Suppressing Media Freedom In Uganda

Press freedom is a fundamental pillar of democracy, ensuring that the public has access to accurate and reliable information. However, when mainstream journalism is suppressed and targeted, whether through intimidation or violence, society pays the price.

The withdrawal of major Ugandan media houses from covering the Kawempe North by-election earlier today due to threats from security agencies highlights the dangerous consequences of silencing the press.

When professional journalists are forced out, community journalism fills the gap. But without editorial oversight, fact-checking, or ethical standards, this space often becomes a breeding ground for misinformation and fake news. This empowers unregulated news sources, fuelling public mistrust and destabilizing democracy.

Major media houses play a crucial role in informing the public, ensuring electoral transparency, and holding authorities accountable. However, when journalists become targets of security agencies, they are forced to withdraw leading to several negative outcomes:

The situation in the Kawempe by-election exemplifies how silencing the press creates an information vacuum that community journalism struggles to fill adequately.

The decision by Ugandan media houses to withdraw from the Kawempe by-election is not just a press freedom issue—it is a democracy issue. When journalists are silenced, fake news thrives, leading to political instability, public confusion, and a weakened society.

Instead of suppressing the press, authorities should ensure journalists can operate freely and safely. A strong, independent media remains the best defense against misinformation and a key pillar in maintaining democracy.