UJA Condemns Brutal Attack on Journalist Kibwiika

Witnesses say the operatives not only prevented him from filming but also confiscated his equipment before inflicting serious injuries.

The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has strongly condemned the brutal attack on Steven Kibwiika, a Spark TV cameraman, who was assaulted by security operatives while covering alleged electoral malpractice in Kawempe North.

Kibwiika was reportedly filming an incident in Namere, Kawempe North, where a group of individuals was suspected of pre-ticking ballot papers ahead of the March 13 by-election when armed men confronted and attacked him.

Witnesses say the operatives not only prevented him from filming but also confiscated his equipment before inflicting serious injuries.

Following the assault, Kibwiika was rushed to a Kampala health facility for urgent medical attention, where he remains hospitalized.

This marks the second attack on him in less than two weeks, with UJA revealing that he was also "badly beaten by Wandegeya police officers" on March 4 while covering another story.

UJA has decried the growing violence against journalists, warning that such “criminal acts of impunity must stop.”

The association vowed to take legal action against those responsible, stating that it has been documenting violations to strengthen evidence for court action.

"Violence against journalists is unacceptable! Journalism is not a crime,” UJA declared, calling for accountability and better protection for media professionals, especially during politically sensitive periods.

The attack has sparked renewed concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists in Uganda, with calls for authorities to take action against those targeting media personnel.