The Uganda Editors Guild has strongly condemned the “premeditated” attacks on journalists covering the Kawempe North by-election, calling for swift action to hold those responsible accountable.
The Guild described the attacks, which occurred on March 13, 2025, as a “deliberate and systematic” attempt to intimidate and silence journalists. Armed security personnel in military uniform were seen assaulting journalists, destroying cameras and other equipment.
According to eyewitnesses, the security personnel targeted journalists who were covering the by-election, beating and harassing them without provocation. Several journalists were injured in the attacks, and many others had their equipment destroyed or confiscated.
“We condemn these acts of professional and psychological terror in the strongest terms possible,” the Guild said in a statement. “The attacks on journalists were premeditated and intended to punish or otherwise deter journalists from covering the by-election.”
The Guild emphasized that the attacks were not only a violation of journalists’ rights, but also a threat to democracy and the rule of law. “A free and independent press is essential to a functioning democracy, and attacks on journalists undermine the very foundations of our society,” the statement read.
The Uganda Editors Guild has called on the authorities to conduct a swift and transparent investigation into the attacks, and to hold those responsible accountable. The Guild has also urged the government to take concrete steps to ensure the safety and security of journalists, and to respect the constitutional guarantees of freedom of assembly, expression and association.
The Guild has written to the Chief of Defence Forces and the Inspector General of Police to request a meeting to discuss the attacks and the measures that need to be taken to prevent such incidents in the future.
“We remain open to dialogue to find a genuine and sustainable mechanism for ending this unfortunate and perennial pattern of senseless violence,” the Guild said.
The attacks on journalists have sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from local and international organizations. The European Union has issued a statement condemning the attacks and calling on the Ugandan government to respect the rights of journalists.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces has promised an investigation into the incidents, but the Guild has urged for a “quick, transparent, and independent” inquiry.
The Guild has also called on the government to provide compensation to the journalists who were injured or had their equipment destroyed in the attacks.
“Journalism is not a crime,” the Guild said. “We will continue to demand justice and accountability for these senseless attacks on our colleagues.”
