The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has strongly condemned what it describes as an attempt by the Parliament of Uganda administration to restrict media freedom. The association’s statement specifically addresses the reported ban on Nation Media Group (NMG) journalists, including those from NTV Uganda, from covering parliamentary proceedings indefinitely.
UJA labeled the action a blatant violation of the constitutional right to freedom of the press and citizens’ right to access information, as outlined in Articles 29(1)(a) and 41 of the 1995 Constitution. The association stressed that Parliament, being a public institution funded by taxpayers, must remain open to scrutiny and coverage by all accredited media outlets without discrimination or intimidation.
According to UJA, the reported ban is a deliberate attempt to silence independent journalism, shield public officials from accountability, and undermine transparency. The statement warns that such actions are a serious threat to democratic principles and the proper functioning of Uganda’s legislative system.
The association highlighted a pattern of press freedom violations in Uganda, citing recent incidents where senior public officials attacked journalists for performing their duties. For instance, last month, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Ministry of Health PS Dr. Diana Atwine reportedly confronted journalist David Mwesigwa from Galaxy Radio-TV after he reported shortcomings in service delivery at government health facilities in Mukono, Kayunga, and Namuganga. Mwesigwa’s reporting reportedly led to an arrest order issued by the Prime Minister.
UJA emphasized that journalists do not cover Parliament as a favor, but as part of their constitutional duty to inform the public. Any restrictions on media access to parliamentary proceedings, the association argues, are an affront to the sovereignty of the people and a step backward in Uganda’s democratic journey.
In its statement, UJA expressed full solidarity with NMG and all journalists working under increasingly hostile conditions. The association noted that these restrictions jeopardize not only media independence but also the public’s right to be informed about decisions affecting their lives.
The Uganda Journalists Association has issued specific demands to the Parliament of Uganda. These include an immediate and unconditional lifting of the ban on NMG coverage, a formal clarification from the Office of the Speaker, and the adoption of transparent, non-discriminatory media access policies that uphold journalistic independence.
Failure to address these demands, UJA warned, will prompt the association to announce the next course of action to defend press freedom. The statement underscores UJA’s commitment to ensuring that public officials do not erode the hard-won rights of Ugandan journalists.
Emmanuel Kirunda, Secretary General of UJA, reiterated the association’s unwavering stance on defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and holding duty bearers accountable. “Freedom of the press is not negotiable,” Kirunda stated.
As the situation unfolds, the focus now turns to how the Parliament of Uganda will respond. Journalists, media houses, and civil society organizations are closely watching, emphasizing that media access and transparency are vital for a healthy democracy and public confidence in government institutions.
