With just 13 days left to the national elections, Ugandan security forces have once again reminded the media of their dark side after they violently brutalised BBS TV Journalist Ivan Mbadi during National Unity Platform (NUP) Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi’s campaign in Bukwo district on Monday.
In a video circulating online, two heavily armed security personnel are seen choking and strangling Mbadi by his shirt collar as they dragged him to an infamous drone vehicle and hit his head against the car a number of times.
The two officers then continue to strangle Mbadi before they walk off leaving Mbadi visibly dazed and traumatised from the brutality of the security offices.
Ironically, the beating comes hours after IGP Abas Byakagaba promised a peaceful election to all Ugandans while addressing media, a clip which the force shared on it’s X handle.
“I’m giving you full assurance that nobody is going to disturb the peace in this country, elections are going to take place with utmost good environment” the IGP said.
In the video, probable gunshot sounds and teargas canisters being shot by the combined security forces towards people can be heard.
According to sources, Mbadi was recording this when the two men in uniform pounced on him.
The Uganda Human Rights Network (HRNJ) has since condemned the security forces and called on the security forces to respect press freedom.
“We condemn the brutal beating of BBS TV journalist Mbadi Ivan by @PoliceUg while covering
@HEBobiwine. Police must respect press freedom and protect journalists on duty not attack them” a statement released by HRNJ states.
In March last year, over 30 journalists were attacked by Uganda’s security forces on March 12 and 13 while covering the highly contested Kawempe North parliamentary by-election.
Monday’s attack on Mbadi in Kween in full observance of top police and UPDF commander leaves much to question on the safety of journalists during the polling days.
Below is the video of Uganda Police force choking and Strangling BBS Tv journalist Mbadi on Monday
