By Our Reporter,
NTUNGAMO
The Ntungamo Assistant Resident District Commissioner (A/RDC) Jimmy Tashobya aka Omugogozi has defended the actions of security operatives in incidents where journalists have been allegedly harassed or tortured, stating that such actions are often misunderstood and depend on the journalists’ conduct during their duties.
The remarks were made by Tashobya’s representative, as the chief guest on behalf of Christopher Bariyo at a function to commemorate the World Press Freedom Day organized by local journalists in the district.
In his remarks made on behalf of the A/RDC, Bariyo said that the mistreatment of journalists is sometimes triggered by their conduct, arguing that media practitioners must operate within the bounds of professionalism.
The comments followed criticism from newly elected Rushenyi Journalists Association chairperson Savior Kihembo, who condemned the brutal treatment of journalists during the March Kawempe North by-election, where over 35 journalists were assaulted, equipment destroyed and others arbitrary arrested and tortured inside security drone vehicles and detentions.
“I think this is the high time where the government should respect journalists to perform their duty without harassment. Without journalists, people would be green about world trends,” said Kihembo.
Kihembo also decried the exploitation of journalists by media houses owned by politicians and government leaders, accusing them of paying poor wages and offering little to no support for media workers in rural areas.
In response, Bariyo urged journalists to refrain from exaggeration and to uphold ethics in their reporting. He further encouraged them to take part in government poverty eradication programs such as Emyooga and the Parish Development Model.
Meanwhile, Alex Akankwasa, vice chairperson of the newly formed Rushenyi Journalists Association, echoed concerns about the lack of support from political leaders, contrasting it with the generous funding received by village bereavement groups ( Mwezikye).
The event marked the official launch of the Rushenyi Journalists Association, with Kihembo installed as its inaugural chairperson. The association aims to unite journalists in the area and advocate for their welfare and professional development.
