There was an incident of violence and theft at the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party headquarters in Najjankumbi, Kampala. A group of attackers, described as "goons," targeted and robbed journalists who had come.
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During the attack, the goons seized cameras, phones, camera stands, and bags belonging to the journalists. More than five journalists from various media houses were seriously injured and had to be rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Those who managed to escape had to flee to save their lives. Local residents intervened to rescue the journalists, leading to a clash between the goons and the residents.
The police eventually arrived at the scene and used live bullets and tear gas to restore order. As of the time of the press report, FDC officials were still locked inside the building, and the police had taken over the security of the premises. Attempts to reach the FDC party for a comment were unsuccessful as all members had switched off their phones.
This incident highlights the importance of press freedom and the need to ensure the safety and protection of journalists. The attack on journalists and the theft of their equipment is not only a violation of their rights but also undermines the public's right to access information. Such acts of violence should be condemned, and the perpetrators should be held accountable for their actions.
There are several legal provisions in Uganda that protect the rights of journalists and media freedom. The Constitution of Uganda, under Article 29(1)(a), guarantees freedom of speech and expression, which includes the freedom of the press. Additionally, the Press and Journalist Act 1995 provides for the rights and duties of journalists, including their protection against violence and intimidation.
In this particular case, the assault on journalists and the theft of their equipment can be considered criminal offenses. The Penal Code Act of Uganda, under Section 236, defines robbery as the use of force or threat of force to steal property from another person. The attackers, if apprehended, could face charges of robbery and assault.
Furthermore, the attack took place on the premises of the FDC party headquarters, which raises questions about the party's responsibility for the safety of individuals present at their premises. The FDC party could potentially face civil liability if it is found that they failed to provide adequate security measures or allowed the attackers to enter their premises.
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According to eyewitnesses, the attack began around 3:00pm when the goons climbed over the wall to enter the FDC party premises. The journalists had initially been denied entry without any explanation. They stayed outside the gate, waiting for updates from the meeting. FDC party Chairman Amb Birigwa also arrived but was blocked from entering.
After some time, Mr. Birigwa was allowed to enter through a small gate, but his vehicle remained outside. Some FDC members were also kept outside the premises. Meanwhile, the journalists were still waiting outside when the goons from inside the headquarters jumped over the wall and attacked them. The attackers were armed with sticks, stones, and they began assaulting the journalists.
After some time, Mr. Birigwa was allowed to enter through a small gate, but his vehicle remained outside. Some FDC members were also kept outside the premises. Meanwhile, the journalists were still waiting outside when the goons from inside the headquarters jumped over the wall and attacked them. The attackers were armed with sticks, stones, and they began assaulting the journalists.
courtesy photo
During the attack, the goons seized cameras, phones, camera stands, and bags belonging to the journalists. More than five journalists from various media houses were seriously injured and had to be rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Those who managed to escape had to flee to save their lives. Local residents intervened to rescue the journalists, leading to a clash between the goons and the residents.
The police eventually arrived at the scene and used live bullets and tear gas to restore order. As of the time of the press report, FDC officials were still locked inside the building, and the police had taken over the security of the premises. Attempts to reach the FDC party for a comment were unsuccessful as all members had switched off their phones.
courtesy photo
This incident highlights the importance of press freedom and the need to ensure the safety and protection of journalists. The attack on journalists and the theft of their equipment is not only a violation of their rights but also undermines the public's right to access information. Such acts of violence should be condemned, and the perpetrators should be held accountable for their actions.
There are several legal provisions in Uganda that protect the rights of journalists and media freedom. The Constitution of Uganda, under Article 29(1)(a), guarantees freedom of speech and expression, which includes the freedom of the press. Additionally, the Press and Journalist Act 1995 provides for the rights and duties of journalists, including their protection against violence and intimidation.
In this particular case, the assault on journalists and the theft of their equipment can be considered criminal offenses. The Penal Code Act of Uganda, under Section 236, defines robbery as the use of force or threat of force to steal property from another person. The attackers, if apprehended, could face charges of robbery and assault.
courtesy photo
Furthermore, the attack took place on the premises of the FDC party headquarters, which raises questions about the party's responsibility for the safety of individuals present at their premises. The FDC party could potentially face civil liability if it is found that they failed to provide adequate security measures or allowed the attackers to enter their premises.
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