UPDF breaks silence on assault of journalists in Kawempe North By-Election

Kampala, (UG):- The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has spoken out on the allegations of violence against journalists by its security personnel during the hotly contested Kawempe North by-election.

On Thursday, March 13, several from various media outlets in the country reported being assaulted and their equipment confiscated by security forces deployed to maintain order during the electoral exercise, which was eventually won by Elias Luyimbazi Nalukoola of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP).

But in the aftermath of the by-election, the UPDF, in a press statement issued on Thursday evening, acknowledged the reports and announced that investigations had been launched to establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged incidents.

“It is not yet clear what happened that led to the clash between journalists and members of the security forces. Whatever it was, the damage and outcome will lead to unnecessary tension between the security services and the Fourth Estate. This is uncalled for and should be avoided with better coordination in the future,” UPDF’s Acting Director of Defence Public Information, Col. Chris Magezi, stated.

Col. Magezi reaffirmed the UPDF’s commitment to press freedom and assured media practitioners that measures, including disciplinary action where necessary, would be taken once the investigations are concluded.

“The UPDF has henceforth instituted investigations into the incidents that led to the unfortunate development. The result of the investigations will guide the measures to be undertaken, including disciplinary processes where appropriate,” he asserted.

“We assure the media and other stakeholders that the UPDF values and treats our relations with them very seriously, and we will do our utmost to rebuild the trust and confidence we have shared for so long,” Col. Magezi added.

The UPDF Spokesperson also emphasized the need for cooperation between security agencies and journalists, urging all parties to work together to ensure peaceful and secure environments during such national exercises.

“We wish to reiterate that it is a shared responsibility as citizens in our respective capacities to work together to make sure that all corners of the country are secure and peaceful all the time. In this regard, we salute the positive media for their valuable contribution,” he said.

While acknowledging that most citizens are law-abiding, Col. Magezi noted that there are a few individuals who engage in unlawful activities, warning that those found violating the law would face firm action.

“As a point of note, most citizens are law-abiding and support and respect the work of law enforcement officers. We thank them for their cooperation. There are, however, a few among them who seek to cause trouble, engage in aggressive behavior against the security forces, and break the law. The lawbreakers will be dealt with firmly according to the laws of the land,” the statement concluded.