Kampala, Uganda: Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) Executive Director, Nyombi Thembo, has asked the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to fast-track arrangements for journalists to undergo ideological and professional orientation at the National Leadership Institute (NALI), Kyankwanzi.
Nyombi told media sector managers that journalists are “key partners in national development” and need capacity-building to align with the country’s priorities.
“Taking journalists to Kyankwanzi is not about politics but about patriotism, professionalism and equipping them to balance freedom of expression with national interest,” Nyombi said.
Why Kyankwanzi?
Kyankwanzi has historically been the ruling NRM’s hub for ideological orientation and leadership training. Nyombi argued that extending this model to journalists would broaden their understanding of national goals and sharpen responsible reporting in a media space often torn between free expression and state interests.
Nyombi’s call has already stirred debate in press circles. Whereas some journalists welcomed the proposal as a rare chance for professional development, others warned that it could threaten editorial independence and entrench state influence in the newsroom.
“This could be a backdoor attempt at controlling the press,” one senior editor observed, pointing to concerns about government-media relations.
Gen. Muhoozi, who has in recent months rallied multiple sectors behind the government’s strategic agenda, has not yet responded to UCC’s request.
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