Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago has called upon the public to counter threats to a free and independent media, including physical risk and arbitrary detentions.
Lukwago made the remarks as journalists both in Uganda and around the world commemorated the World Press Freedom under the theme, “Journalism under digital siege”
“At a time when the truth is increasingly under attack, our need for accurate, fact-based reporting, open public conversation, and accountability has never been greater,” said Lukwago in a statement.
Lukwago said that he celebrates the unrelenting determination and bravery of all journalists in execution of their work, calling upon Ugandans to do the same as the media continues to encounter numerous challenges including brutality from the state among others.
“I recognise the pivotal role a free press plays in building prosperous, resilient and free society and recommit to protecting and promoting free, independent, and diverse media,” he stated.
Lukwago said the government should take seriously the 3rd, May 1993 Windhoek Declaration which asserted that, “the establishment, maintenance and fostering of an independent, pluralistic and free press is essential to the development and maintenance of democracy in a nation, and for economic development.”
