By Jamirah Khassim
The Head of the State House Investors Protection Unit, Colonel Edith Nakalema, has described Next Media Group Chief Executive Officer Kin Kariisa as a "national treasure" and a long-time personal friend, in what appeared to be a deliberate gesture to reset the government’s relationship with the media.
Col Nakalema made the remarks during a high-profile visit to the Next Media Park on Tuesday, where she met with journalists and top management of Uganda’s largest media conglomerate.
The visit comes against a backdrop of strained relations between the State and the press, marked by growing public criticism over the brutal treatment of journalists by security forces.
“I take full responsibility for the mistakes made by our forces,” Col Nakalema said, addressing a room filled with reporters and media executives.
“We apologize for the pain and trauma that may have been caused. We are sorry. I ask for your forgiveness.”
Her apology follows a widely condemned incident during the Kawempe North by-elections, where journalists—including Next Media's Francis Isaano and Timothy Kitimbo—were assaulted while on duty.
The violent crackdown reignited concerns about press freedom and drew sharp rebuke from media associations, some of whom briefly imposed a boycott on coverage of security agencies.
Though the boycott has since been lifted, media houses like Next Media and Nation Media have continued to be excluded from certain government and security events, deepening tensions.
However, Nakalema’s visit marked a shift in tone, signalling a willingness by the State to repair its fractured relationship with the press.
“The media is not our enemy,” she emphasized. “You are vital in shaping public perception, informing the nation, and promoting development.”
In an unusually candid address, Col Nakalema lauded the role of journalists in Uganda’s growth and stability.
“We thank you for your hard work—especially during difficult, late hours. Your commitment is part of what builds a better Uganda.”
Her remarks come less than six months to the 2026 general elections, a period historically marred by heightened tensions and confrontations between security forces and the media.
Striking a deeply personal tone, Nakalema reserved special praise for Kin Kariisa, Next Media’s CEO and a prominent voice in Uganda’s media landscape.
“Kin Kariisa is a national treasure,” she said. “He has used his personal resources to positively showcase Uganda to the world. That deserves our appreciation.”
She went further to offer herself as a direct liaison between journalists and the security establishment.
“I offer myself as a messenger to carry your concerns, feedback, and suggestions to the security leadership. Let’s improve how we work together.”
Addressing the younger generation in the industry, she added, “Our youth in journalism have so much potential to shape Uganda’s future. We see your efforts, and we are thankful.”
The engagement concluded with a heartfelt call for collaboration and dialogue.
“Let us work together to build a country we’re all proud of,” she said. “Please don’t hold back. Share your ideas—your input matters.”
The meeting was widely seen as a significant first step toward rebuilding mutual trust between the media and the State.
While actions going forward will be the true measure of commitment, the session set a tone of reconciliation, transparency, and shared responsibility in advancing both press freedom and national security.