The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have started inquiries on the alleged assault of journalists during the recently concluded Kawempe North by-election.

Several journalists were reportedly attacked and their equipment confiscated by security personnel deployed to maintain law and order in the area.

In response to these reports, the UPDF has vowed to investigate the incident and take necessary actions based on the findings.

UPDF’s spokesperson, Chris Magezi, confirmed that the force has already initiated an internal investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the confrontation.

“The results of the investigation will guide the measures to be undertaken, including disciplinary processes where appropriate,” Magezi said on X.

According to him, there have been reports coming out of Kawempe that several journalists were assaulted and their equipment confiscated by some members of the security forces.

However, it is not yet clear what happened, but whatever the cause, such incidents should be avoided through better coordination in the future.

Magezi emphasized the UPDF’s commitment to maintaining a positive relationship with the media.

“We value our relations with the media and assure them that we will do our utmost to rebuild the trust and confidence we have shared for so long,” he affirmed.

The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) condemned the attacks, particularly the assault on Spark TV journalist Steven Kibwika.

UJA’s Secretary General, Emmanuel Kirunda, stated that Kibwika, who was reporting on alleged ballot paper pre-ticking, had been “terribly attacked” by security operatives in the Nameere zone of Kawempe.

Kibwika remains hospitalized after the assault. UJA also pointed out that Kibwika had previously been assaulted by police officers in March while following up on the illegal detention of opposition politicians.

Magezi reiterated the shared responsibility of citizens and security forces to ensure peace and security.

“It is a shared responsibility to maintain peace and security across the country. Most citizens are law-abiding and cooperate with law enforcement officers,” he remarked.

However, he acknowledged that a small number of individuals engage in aggressive behavior, which sometimes leads to clashes with security forces.

“Lawbreakers will be dealt with firmly according to the laws of the land,” he warned.

As the investigation unfolds, the public and media await the results, hoping for swift action to address the concerns raised.