The Uganda Journalists association (UJA) has condemned the beating of two journalists revealing that they will take legal action against the perpetrators.
Muganga Brian Kivumbi of News 24/7 and Brian Membe of Bukedde TV were beaten up by a lawyer and his clients while they were filming following a court hearing in a land case. Both were physically injured and Kivumbi’s camera was also destroyed.
“UJA condemns any and all forms of violence and human rights violations against journalists and the general public “We have instructed our legal team to take relevant legal action against the offenders as a deterent measure against future human rights violations” a statement by the journalists’ body reads in part
The association’s secretary for Information Kabuye Ronald called out the incident condemning the acts of brutality against these journalists who were only doing their work.
“Uganda Journalist Association (UJA) is extremely infuriated by continued attacks on Journalists on lawful duty with the latest being an Assualt on Brian Membe Mubiru of Bukedde and Muganga Brian Kivumbi of News 24/7” – the letter read in part adding that
“The attack led by a one Joseph Muyinza(plaintiff) and his lawyers happened at Nabweru Mapgistrate court in Nansana municiplaity Wakiso District on Thursday Morning 6th October 2022 while the duo were filming at the court premises”
” The reckless mob not only beat the journalists; they also vandalised Muganga Brian Kivumbi’s camera. In a video, one of the errant lawyers Edgar Kakoma from bloom advocates who also participated in the beating of journalists is heard saying that they will not pay for anything”