The African Centre for Media Excellence (ACME) has strongly condemned the violent attacks on journalists covering the recently concluded Kawempe North by-election, calling them a direct assault on press freedom and democratic participation.
“The unrestrained conduct of security agents is a blatant attack on independent journalism, endangers legitimate civic participation in legal political activities, and undermines access to information that is vital for voters to exercise their constitutional rights,” said Dr. George Lugalambi, ACME’s executive director.
The by-election, held to replace the late MP Muhammad Ssegirinya, who passed away in January, was marred by violence against journalists. Hasifah Nanvuma from Nation Media Group, along with Hassan Wasswa and Francis Ijjo from NBS TV, were assaulted, with the latter two requiring hospitalization due to their injuries.
Their attack brings the total number of journalists assaulted during this election to seven. Earlier incidents include the March 12 attack on Steven Kibwika of Nation Media Group and Thomas Kitimbo of NBS TV, who were beaten while investigating reports of pre-ticked ballots in Nameere, Kawempe North. On February 26, Ibrahim Miracle of Top TV was brutally attacked by operatives of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Unit, leaving him with severe injuries, including damage to his left eye.
ACME has also raised concerns over apparent efforts to erase evidence of these assaults. Kibwika’s camera was confiscated, Miracle was forced to delete footage, Nanvuma’s camera was damaged, and several NBS TV cameras were reportedly seized. Many of the perpetrators concealed their identities by wearing masks, a practice that contradicts government regulations requiring security personnel to be identifiable while on duty.
The organization warns that the pattern of impunity seen in this by-election could set a dangerous precedent ahead of the 2026 general elections. It has called on security agencies to uphold the law, ensure officers are accountable, and protect journalists from attacks while carrying out their professional duties.