Journalist Santo Ojok detained over radio talk show dispute

Apac, Uganda: A freelance journalist attached to Daily Monitor and Radio Divine in Apac District has been arrested under controversial circumstances, sparking renewed concerns over press freedom in Uganda.

Ojok was picked up late Thursday night on alleged orders of Apac Resident District Commissioner Mr Andrew Onyuk and was briefly detained at Apac Central Police Station, but released moments later after making a statement.

According to Radio Divine Station Manager Mr Denis Ojwiny, the arrest stemmed from a disagreement between Ojok and the RDC over a planned radio talk show.

“Ojok was taken from his workplace after the RDC claimed he was sabotaging a government programme,” Ojwiny said. “This is a direct attack on media ethics and freedom. Journalists should never be arrested for performing their duties.”

Apac District Police Commander Ms Norah Mirembe confirmed Ojok’s detention, stating that “he is assisting police with investigations. We are following due process” without disclosing specific charges.

The arrest has drawn sharp criticism from journalists and human rights advocates, who describe the move as intimidation.

Mr Andrew Omadi, Chairperson of the Apac Journalists Association, said the body is preparing legal action. “This is intimidation aimed at silencing journalists. We will ensure his constitutional rights are protected and challenge this detention in court,” Omadi said.

Ojwiny also criticised the arrest, arguing that disputes involving media should be handled through dialogue. “Detaining a journalist for hosting a talk show is unacceptable. Dialogue, not arrests, should resolve disagreements,” he said.

Observers warn that such incidents reflect a broader pattern of pressure on journalists reporting on government programmes.

“When journalists are silenced, the public loses access to vital information. This is not just about one journalist; it is about the freedom of every Ugandan,” a senior media expert in Apac said.