By The Human Rights Network for Journalists–Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) has urged government agencies, media owners, and other stakeholders to guarantee the safety and freedom of journalists during the upcoming 2026 general elections.
Speaking in Kampala, HRNJ-Uganda Executive Director Robert Ssempala emphasized that journalists play a critical role in ensuring free and fair elections by informing the public and amplifying diverse voices.
“As journalists, we are the mirror of elections. Everyone is looking to us to amplify their voices from candidates to voters. There is no excuse for failing to effectively participate in this process,” Ssempala said.
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He called on security agencies, media managers, religious and cultural leaders, politicians, and the judiciary to fulfill their responsibilities in safeguarding media freedom. “We must create an environment where journalists can report freely and safely, without intimidation or violence,” he added.
The appeal comes against the backdrop of past incidents where journalists were brutalized while covering political events, including the Kawempe North by-election. HRNJ says it has already embarked on training journalists to prepare them for election coverage and will continue engaging stakeholders to reduce risks.
“Journalists must be proactive in preparing for the election period, but it is equally important that those in positions of authority ensure that the media can operate without fear,” Ssempala stressed.
Uganda heads to the polls in 2026, with media freedom advocates warning that harassment of journalists during campaigns undermines transparency and democratic participation.
