The Human Rights Network for Journalists (HRNJ) Uganda has called for the protection of Journalists and Media Freedoms during the 2026 Presidential national election campaigns which kicked off yesterday.
In a statement released on Tuesday, HRNJ underscored the critical importance of safeguarding journalists and upholding media freedoms.
“A free and independent press is essential for transparency, accountability, and the integrity of the electoral process”.
The statement further read, “HRNJ-Uganda remains on standby, actively monitoring the environment for any threats, harassment, or attacks against journalists”.
HRNJ further called on all stakeholders including government authorities, political actors, and civil society to ensure the safety of media workers and respect the rights of the press.
“A democracy cannot thrive without a free and protected press. HRNJ-Uganda reaffirms its commitment to defending the rights of journalists and supporting a safe media environment throughout this election period” HRNJ said.
The national election period cycle has for so long been a cat and mouse game between Journalists and security personnel who on several occasions brutalize journalists and damage their equipment during elections.
The most recent incident was the 13 March Kawempe North by-elections, where a combined team of security forces beat up at least 12 journalists from different media houses who were covering the election.
A number of the journalists sustained severe injuries and required medical attention.
The brutality on journalists while performing their duty drew condemnation from a number of rights body’s both domestically and abroad including the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).
