Day

By Walukamba Aldon—–

As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day in 2024, it’s essential to reflect on how professionalism, political parallelism, media markets, and the state influence journalism in Uganda today.

These factors intersect to shape the media landscape, impacting the quality of reporting, the diversity of perspectives, and the overall freedom of the press in the country.

Professionalism serves as the foundation of ethical journalism, emphasizing accuracy, impartiality, and accountability. However, in Uganda, the level of professionalism within the journalism sector varies widely.

While some journalists adhere to rigorous ethical standards, others may compromise their integrity due to political or commercial pressures. This variance in professionalism can lead to biased reporting, misinformation, and a loss of public trust in the media.

Political parallelism is another critical factor affecting journalism in Uganda. Many media outlets in the country have close ties to political interests, either through direct ownership or indirect control.

This alignment can result in biased reporting that reflects the agenda of those in power, while marginalizing dissenting voices. Journalists may face pressure to self-censor or report in a manner that aligns with the interests of their owners or sponsors, undermining their ability to act as watchdogs and hold the government accountable.Media markets also play a significant role in shaping journalism in Uganda.

While the country has a diverse range of media outlets, including newspapers, radio stations, and online platforms, the market is driven by commercial interests. Media organizations rely heavily on advertising revenue to sustain their operations, leading to competition for audience attention and advertising dollars. In this competitive environment, sensationalism and entertainment-focused content may overshadow in-depth reporting and investigative journalism.

As a result, crucial issues may be overlooked or sensationalized, further eroding the quality of journalism in the country.The state’s influence on journalism in Uganda cannot be overlooked. While freedom of the press is guaranteed by the Ugandan constitution, journalists often face harassment, intimidation, and legal threats from state authorities.

The government has been known to shut down media outlets, revoke broadcasting licenses, and enact restrictive laws that limit freedom of expression. This hostile environment creates a chilling effect on journalism, discouraging journalists from pursuing critical reporting and investigative work for fear of reprisals.

In light of these challenges, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of press freedom and the role of journalists in upholding democratic principles and promoting accountability. As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day in 2024, it is incumbent upon the Ugandan government to respect and protect the rights of journalists to report freely and independently.

Similarly, media organizations must prioritize professionalism and ethical standards, while also resisting political and commercial pressures that compromise their integrity. By fostering a media environment that values transparency, diversity, and accountability, Uganda can ensure that journalism continues to serve as a cornerstone of democracy and public discourse in the country.

Walukamba Aldon is a media consultant and communications manager at Kinyara Sugar Limited

By our reporter
in Mbarara—–

Four suspects have been remanded for their alleged role in the disappearance and murder of Anthony Takirwa ,an engineer who was reported missing for four days before he was found dead in Mbarara city at the start of April,2024.

They are Lynette Reachel otebwa 40 and a Journalist attached to the National broadcaster -UBC west ,Mandela Mathias 25,Justine Atuhaire 47 and Jonic Tukasingura, 35.

They all appeared before Mbarara grade one magistrate Racheal Tabaruka and were charged with murder contrary to section 188 of the penal code
However they were not allowed to take plea because they faced a capital offence which is only tried by High court

According to the charge sheet, the accused and others still at large unlawfully caused the death of engineer Anthony Takirwa on April 10th ,2024 while at Lugazi cell in Mbarara city with malice aforethought.

The suspects have been remanded until May,17th.

By Ambrose Kweronda

in Rubanda—-

Fourteen parish chiefs and Community Development Officers (CDOs) in Rubanda district have been arrested for neglecting their duties related to the Parish Development Model (PDM) program.

They were arrested on the orders of the Rubanda Deputy Resident District Commissioner Eric Ssewandigi .

The arrests were made based on reports that these officials failed to upload beneficiary names and details to the Parish Development Model Information System (PDMIS) during the initial disbursement of the PDM revolving fund.

The arrested parish chiefs include Alfonsina Tumwakire (Kiyebe Parish), Dauda Kasajja (Ihanja Parish), Eric Sabiti (Butusi Ward), Atuhaire Sophan (Muruhinga Ward), Teodoro Bazarwagye (Kagunga Parish), Jackson Tumukwasibwe (Kishanje Parish), Andrew Nizeyimana (Kabere Parish), Mike Kimamzi (Kashekyera Ward).

The arrested Community Development Officers include Scarlet Kemigisha (Bubare Sub County), Hillary Byomuhangi (Habuhutu-Mugyera Town Council), Elias Ahimbisibwe (Bufundi Sub County), Andrew Naturinda (Muko Sub County), Kwesiga Howard (Ruhija Sub County), Deus Bareke (Butare-Katojo Town Council).

Eric Ssewandigi Rubanda’s Deputy Resident District Commissioner, , accused the arrested officials of neglecting their responsibilities.

He stated they would be brought before court to face dismissal and pave the way for “patriotic Ugandans” who are committed to serving the community