UJA Seeks Electoral Commission Commitment on Journalist Safety Ahead of 2026 Vote
The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has formally petitioned the Electoral Commission (EC), urging the body to provide immediate and concrete assurances for the safety of journalists as Uganda (UG) heads into the 2026 general elections.
In a letter addressed to EC Chairperson Justice Simon Byabakama, UJA expressed grave concern over increasing incidents of violence against media professionals during electoral coverage, referencing the March 13, 2025, Kawempe North by-election as a distressing example.
According to UJA, at least 36 journalists and media vehicle drivers were physically assaulted during the by-election while performing their professional duties. The alleged perpetrators were members of security forces, including the Uganda Police Force and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF). In addition to physical harm, several journalists had essential equipment such as mobile phones, professional cameras, and live broadcast units confiscated — items that have yet to be returned.
“These grave atrocities were a deprivation of their right to freedom of speech and expression, as enshrined under Article 29(1)(a) of the Constitution,” reads part of the letter.
UJA President Mathias Rukundo stressed the urgency for the EC to pronounce itself on clear safety guarantees and to collaborate with media stakeholders in addressing the escalating risks facing journalists. He cited the lasting physical and psychological effects of the Kawempe incident on media professionals.
The petition outlines four core proposals aimed at fostering a safer media environment during the election cycle:
- A formal and public statement from the Electoral Commission affirming its commitment to safeguarding journalists.
- A national stakeholder dialogue involving the EC, security agencies, and media associations to clarify responsibilities and expectations.
- Capacity-building initiatives for journalists focused on ethical and secure electoral reporting.
- A long-term institutional partnership between UJA and the EC to design and implement safety mechanisms for media practitioners.
“These steps, if adopted, will lay out a fertile ground for the requisite solutions and mechanisms against the prevailing journalist safety concerns,” Rukundo emphasized.
The Uganda Journalists Association now awaits a formal response from the Electoral Commission on how it intends to act on the matter in time for the 2026 general elections.
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