Tayebwa Condemns Journalist Assaults Amid Kawempe North By-Election

The upcoming Kawempe North by-election, set for March 13, 2025, has been overshadowed by alarming incidents of violence against journalists covering the campaign period.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Rt. Hon. Thomas Tayebwa, has strongly condemned the attacks, raising concerns about their impact on press freedom and the government’s reputation.

During a recent parliamentary session, Tayebwa expressed outrage over the unprovoked assaults by security operatives, questioning their motives.

He suggested that such actions tarnish the government’s image rather than protect it. “Who provoked those people to beat journalists? I think these people are against the state.

Like the journalist who was beaten on the eye. The person who did that does not love his government. They are damaging the image of the government,” he stated.

Several journalists have fallen victim to violence while covering the by-election campaigns. On February 26, 2025, Top TV reporter Ibrahim Miracle was severely beaten by security operatives while covering the nomination of National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Elias Nalukoola Luyimbazi.

The attack left him with serious injuries to his face and eyes, resulting in hospitalisation in critical condition. An NTV reporter, Mbidde, also suffered violence at the hands of security personnel during the campaign period, though details of his injuries remain undisclosed.

These attacks have sparked outcry from civil society organisations and the general public, raising concerns over journalist safety and press freedom in Uganda.

Minister of Trade and Industry, David Bahati, extended sympathies and apologies to the affected journalists and their families. “We sent our sympathies and apologies for what happened to the journalist.

Today, I was speaking to the members of the family together with the MP for Wakiso, and from here, I am going to check on them on behalf of the government,” he said.

Meanwhile, Kalungu MP Joseph Gonzaga Ssewungu criticised the security officers responsible, questioning why they targeted journalists.

He argued that such conduct not only undermines the role of the media but also raises suspicions when officers conceal their identities during operations.

The Kawempe North parliamentary seat fell vacant following the death of Hon. Muhammad Ssegirinya on January 9, 2025.

In line with constitutional requirements, the Electoral Commission scheduled the by-election for March 13, with nominations held between February 26 and 27 and campaigns running from February 28 to March 11.

The campaign period has been tense, with violence not only against journalists but also among supporters of various candidates.

These developments have prompted calls for heightened vigilance and strict adherence to the rule of law to ensure a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process.

The attacks on journalists covering the Kawempe North by-election have cast a shadow over the electoral process, raising serious concerns about press freedom and the conduct of security forces.

Deputy Speaker Tayebwa’s condemnation underscores the gravity of the situation and the urgent need for accountability. As the by-election approaches, stakeholders must ensure the safety of all participants and uphold democratic principles.