Ugandan Journalists Protest Limited Press Freedom Ahead of World Press Freedom Day

Journalists in Mbale, Uganda, have stormed out of a meeting ahead of World Press Freedom Day celebrations, expressing their concerns over limited press freedom and information denial in the country. The Mbale Journalists Association (MBAJA) has dissociated itself from the upcoming celebrations, organized by the Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization, citing allegations of mismanagement and self-interest.

Why this matters: The suppression of press freedom in Uganda has far-reaching consequences for the country's democracy and human rights. The suppression of press freedom in Uganda has far-reaching consequences for the country's democracy and human rights. If left unchecked, it can lead to a lack of accountability and transparency, seriously affecting the welfare of citizens.

World Press Freedom Day 2024 is being commemorated under the global theme "A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the Environmental Crisis." However, the controversy surrounding the Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization has overshadowed the celebrations in Mbale City. The organization, led by Musila Moses and Wambende Fred, has been accused of failing to account for 1.5 million shillings donated by Hands of Action Uganda during the COVID-19 period.

Additionally, the organization's leaders, elected in 2018 for a six-month term, have not relinquished power despite exceeding their mandate by over five years. In response to the allegations, journalists in Mbale City and neighboring districts have formed the Mbale Journalists Association (MBAJA) to promote their interests and dissociate themselves from the Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization.

Ayub Kirinya, a journalist working with IUIU FM, stated, "Musila showed us in the meeting that when we postponed this event, his partners in Kampala would be annoyed. But when asked why yet they haven't given you any money for mobilization, he wasn't clear." Paul Watala, a journalist from New Vision, expressed his concerns about the Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization, saying, "These guys are self-motivated and not there for journalists, so we don't serve the same interests at all... We have seen other regions are working together and benefiting from government programs, but here our colleagues are serving their own interests."

Watala further emphasized the need for unity among journalists in Mbale, stating, "So whoever is going to stand with us on the issues of journalism in Mbale, we shall go with that one, and whoever is going to use us to front his selfish interests, we shall not accept." Matende Yasin, a journalist working with Big FM, explained the decision to pull out of the celebrations, saying, "We asked them to let us stop this function and plan for a belated celebration for all journalists to be involved, which they refused. We had to pull out."

The controversy surrounding the Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization has led to a rift among journalists in Mbale City, with some accusing the organization's leaders of prioritizing their own interests over the welfare of journalists. The Mbale Journalists Association (MBAJA) has emerged as a rival organization, seeking to promote the interests of journalists in the region.

The protest by Mbale journalists also highlights the broader issue of limited press freedom in Uganda. Mayi Gandre, a Ugandan journalist representing Kuchu Times Media Group, has recently spoken out against the restrictions faced by LGBTQ+ individuals and journalists in the country, where freedom of expression is severely limited. Uganda's Anti-Homosexuality Act (2023) punishes reporting on LGBTQ+ issues with heavy fines or prison time, effectively silencing voices and erasing LGBTQ+ individuals from public discourse.

Despite revisions to the Act, the fundamental clause remains intact, perpetuating a culture of silence and invisibility. Kuchu Times Media Group continues to report on LGBTQ+ issues, defying the oppressive forces that seek to silence them. Mayi Gandre emphasizes the importance of press freedom, stating, "Press freedom is not a privilege; it is a fundamental human right vital for the functioning of a democratic society."

The dispute has cast a shadow over the World Press Freedom Day celebrations, highlighting the challenges faced by journalists in Uganda. Marking this important day, pressure must be exerted on the Ugandan government to repeal repressive laws and uphold press freedom and freedom of expression. Only then can journalists fulfill their vital role in promoting democracy, accountability, and equality.

Key Takeaways

• Journalists in Mbale, Uganda, boycott World Press Freedom Day celebrations due to limited press freedom and information denial.
• Mbale Journalists Association (MBAJA) dissociates itself from Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization over mismanagement and self-interest allegations.
• Uganda's press freedom suppression has far-reaching consequences for democracy and human rights.
• Mt. Elgon-Bukedi Media Organization accused of failing to account for 1.5 million shillings in donations and exceeding its mandate.
• Journalists demand press freedom and freedom of expression, citing its importance for a democratic society.