A coalition of Uganda’s top media and human rights organizations has issued a stark warning about growing threats to press freedom in the country, calling for immediate action to protect journalists before the crucial 2026 general elections. The urgent appeal came during a Kampala press conference marking the start of World Press Freedom Day commemorations, where officials described a rapidly deteriorating environment for independent journalism.

The Uganda Media Sector Working Group (UMSWG), bringing together regulators, editors and rights activists, painted a troubling picture of the current media landscape. Journalists now face multiple dangers including physical assaults, online harassment, political interference and economic pressure designed to silence critical reporting. Mariam Wangadya, Chairperson of the Uganda Human Rights Commission, delivered a powerful message to authorities, reminding them of their constitutional obligation to protect press freedom.

“The state must guarantee journalists can work freely and safely,” Wangadya told gathered media professionals. “Freedom of expression cannot remain just words in our constitution – it must become reality in our newsrooms and streets.” Her words carried extra weight as the group released new data showing increased attacks on reporters, particularly those covering sensitive political stories or corruption investigations.

The week-long awareness campaign will feature public debates, educational events and a major national symposium at Makerere University on May 6. This year’s global theme focusing on artificial intelligence’s impact on journalism takes special significance in Uganda, where the UMSWG adopted a localized version: “Defending Truth in the Age of Polarisation and Distrust.” The choice reflects growing concerns about misinformation campaigns and partisan media manipulation expected to intensify during the election period.

In a moving moment, the coalition paid tribute to the late Pope Francis, honoring his lifelong advocacy for ethical journalism and human rights. The gesture underscored the moral dimensions of their fight to preserve independent media as a pillar of democracy.

The UMSWG brings together influential organizations including the Uganda Communications Commission, Media Council of Uganda, Uganda Editors’ Guild and several civil society watchdogs. Their joint statement delivered a sober assessment: “The journalism environment in Uganda is getting worse, not better. We see more intimidation, more interference in editorial decisions, and more attempts to turn media into political weapons rather than truth-tellers.”

Election years typically bring heightened risks for Ugandan journalists. The 2021 polls saw numerous documented cases of reporters being assaulted, arrested or blocked from covering opposition campaigns. Many fear 2026 could prove worse unless concrete protections are implemented. The working group specifically highlighted the dangers of “economic coercion” – subtle but effective pressures including withdrawal of advertising, licensing threats and financial investigations used to punish critical outlets.

Digital surveillance presents another emerging threat. Investigative journalists report increased hacking attempts, while government critics find themselves targeted by coordinated online harassment campaigns. The AI theme resonates deeply as activists worry about sophisticated disinformation tools being deployed to confuse voters and discredit legitimate reporting.

Despite the challenges, Uganda’s media community shows remarkable resilience. Veteran editors at the event shared stories of young reporters continuing sensitive investigations despite risks. Underground networks have formed to provide emergency support and legal aid to journalists in crisis. The week’s events aim to strengthen these solidarity systems while pressuring authorities for reform.

As the press conference concluded, a veteran radio journalist offered a sobering perspective: “We’re not just fighting for our profession – we’re fighting for Uganda’s soul. When journalists cannot safely report the truth, voters make decisions in darkness, corruption thrives unchecked, and democracy becomes empty theater.”

The coming months will test whether Uganda’s leaders heed these warnings or allow press freedoms to erode further. With the 2026 elections looming, the world will be watching whether Africa’s third largest democracy can protect the independent journalism essential for credible polls. For Uganda’s embattled reporters, the fight for truth continues – one story, one broadcast, one byline at a time, regardless of the risks.