The Uganda Parliamentary Press Association (UPPA) has taken a bold stance against police brutality, announcing a media blackout on the Uganda Police Force following Internal Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire’s refusal to apologize for the violence inflicted on journalists during the Kawempe by-elections.
This decision comes after Nakaseke South MP Hon. Lutamaguzi Ssemakula demanded that Minister Otafiire issue an apology to journalists for the violence and abductions suffered by members of the Fourth Estate.
However, Otafiire dismissed the request, stating that President Museveni had already addressed the matter and that he had nothing to add.
Otafiire’s response was met with skepticism, with some MPs defending his position while others, like Kinkizi West MP James Kaberuka, insisted that the government must identify those responsible for the acts of brutality.
Kaberuka argued, “There were several demands from the House, including the need to identify the individuals behind these acts of violence.”
Otafiire’s refusal to apologize was further criticized, with the Minister stating, “When you have reached Jesus Christ, you don’t need a Bishop.”
This statement sparked debate among MPs, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency within the government.
UPPA President Sam Ibanda Mugabi defended the media blackout, stating that it will remain in place until the government assures journalists of their safety and takes steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the media blackout continues, calls for an investigation into the masked individuals who carried out the attacks during the Kawempe by-elections have intensified, with MPs demanding accountability from the government.
