Uganda Media Sector Urges Protection of Journalists Ahead of Press Freedom Day

The Uganda Media Sector Working Group (UMSWG) has sounded the alarm over increasing threats to press freedom, urging authorities to guarantee the safety and independence of journalists ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Speaking during a joint press conference held in Kampala to mark the start of a week-long campaign commemorating World Press Freedom Day, Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission (UHRC), called for urgent measures to safeguard the media.

“The state has a duty to protect journalists and ensure they operate in a free and secure environment,” Wangadya said.

“We must all work together to uphold the rights of media practitioners and ensure that freedom of expression is not just a constitutional promise but a lived reality,”she added.

The UMSWG warned that journalists in Uganda face rising challenges, including physical attacks, digital harassment, political pressure, and economic coercion.

In a joint statement, the coalition cited a worsening media climate marked by editorial interference and increasing polarisation.

“The environment for journalism in Uganda is deteriorating,” the statement read. “There is an urgent need to safeguard media workers from intimidation and ensure legal protections are in place.”

As part of the campaign, a series of public dialogues, debates, and educational events are scheduled throughout the week, culminating in a national symposium on May 6 at Makerere University.

This year’s international theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” underscores global challenges facing journalism.

UMSWG adopted a local theme: “Defending Truth in the Age of Polarisation and Distrust.”

The group also paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, describing him as a global advocate for ethical journalism and human dignity.

UMSWG includes key partners such as the Uganda Human Rights Commission, Uganda Communications Commission, Media Council of Uganda, Uganda Editors’ Guild, and various civil society groups.

“The press plays an indispensable role in democratic processes, especially during election seasons,” the group noted.

“Journalists must be allowed to work without fear or favor. Their safety, dignity, and independence must be prioritised.”

The state has a duty to protect journalists and ensure they operate in a free and secure environment