The Escalating Violence Against Journalists in Uganda

The Escalating Violence Against Journalists in Uganda: A Dark Chapter Revisited

In the wake of the recently concluded Kawempe North by-election, Uganda has once again been thrust into the global spotlight for all the wrong reasons. Targeted attacks on journalists covering the election have left many hospitalized, grappling not only with physical injuries but also deep psychological trauma.

This alarming trend of violence against the press is not new, but its escalation under Mr. Yoweri Museveni’s rule, with security forces increasingly leading the assault, has reached a dangerous high.

A Press Under Siege

Veteran journalist Peter Kibazo, who has reported on Ugandan politics for over two decades, paints a grim picture of the current crisis:

> “Uganda’s history is littered with media houses that have been closed and journalists who have been killed. We have journalists who have died on the job.”

His words reflect a harrowing reality—where press freedom is under attack and journalists are treated as enemies of the state.

Kawempe By-Election: A War Zone for Journalists

The Kawempe by-election became yet another battleground for press freedom. Security agencies, allegedly acting on higher orders, unleashed brutal force on journalists covering the event.

Eyewitnesses reported a shocking scenario—two separate security agencies were present:

One force stood by powerless

The other carried out the assault

This blatant disregard for the rule of law has sparked outrage, raising serious concerns about democracy and human rights in Uganda.

Rachel Mugaramutana from the African Center for Media Excellence (ACME) highlighted the escalating crisis, stating:

> “The escalation is such that you have security agencies watching with their hands tied while another agency acts as the aggressor.”

This breakdown in the chain of command exposes a culture of impunity where security forces operate without accountability.

Journalists Under Attack: The Names Behind the Pain

The victims of the Kawempe attacks are not just statistics—they are real people, suffering real consequences:

John Kibuuka, a reporter for a local radio station, was severely beaten and remains hospitalized.

Sarah Nalwoga barely escaped with her life after being singled out by security personnel.

These are not isolated cases; they are part of a terrifying pattern of state-sanctioned violence against journalists.

Uganda’s Election Season: A Death Trap for Journalists

With Uganda heading back to the polls in just nine months, the timing of these attacks is especially alarming.

Historically, election periods are the most dangerous times for journalists in Uganda. As political tensions rise, so does the risk for those reporting the truth.

Mugaramutana warns:

> “Whenever we are in an environment of heightened political activity, journalists are at greater risk. The trends over the past 25 years show that this is unlikely to stop anytime soon.”

Who is Behind the Crackdown?

The role of Mr. Museveni and his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, cannot be ignored. Critics argue that violence against journalists is a deliberate strategy—one aimed at silencing dissent and controlling the narrative.

For over three decades, Mr. Museveni has been accused of using state machinery to suppress opposition. The recent brutality in Kawempe is seen as yet another example of this ruthless strategy in action.

Media Industry in Uganda: Growth Under Fear

Despite the expansion of Uganda’s media industry, journalists operate under constant threat.

According to ACME’s annual studies, defense and security reporting ranks at the bottom of 25 public affairs subjects. This is not due to a lack of interest—but a fear for their lives.

A Call for Action: No More Silence!

The National Association of Broadcasters has condemned the attacks and is engaging with authorities. However, their proposal to blackout coverage of security agencies has sparked debate:

Some believe it protects journalists

Others argue it further erodes press freedom

Ugandan journalists are making their stance loud and clear:

> “The brutality we face is unacceptable.”

One journalist, speaking anonymously, summed it up:

> “Right now, all of us are talking about how crazy and unthinking these attacks are. But in doing so, we are sending the message the state wants—fear and silence.”

The World is Watching: Will Uganda Choose Democracy or Dictatorship?

Uganda stands at a dangerous crossroads. This isn’t just an attack on journalists—it’s an attack on democracy itself.

If the international community and Ugandan civil society fail to act, the country risks sliding further into authoritarian rule.

Uganda’s journalists deserve better. The people of Uganda deserve better.

It’s time to stand up for press freedom. It’s time to hold those in power accountable.

Join the Movement: Speak Out NOW!