The Leadership of the UPF has strongly condemned the manner in which two journalists from Next Media namely Isano Francis, and Thomas Kitimbo, were attacked and pepper sprayed, during the dispersal of pre-intern doctors, who were holding a demonstration around Mulago Guest House Wandegeya on the 11.04.2023 at around 9:30am. The abuse directed at journalists and reporters for simply doing their job, can never be justified. The officer who acted unprofessionally has been identified as CPL Ogwal Yeeko. Although the officer issued an apology to the journalists, he has still been suspended and handed over to the Professional Standards Unit, for investigations.
From the part of the two journalists, it’s crucial that they record their statements with PSU, to allow charges to be brought against the officers. We have also reached out to the journalists, Next Media and expressed deep regrets over the conduct of our officers.
As an organisation, we have a long and proud history with the media, especially crime reporters, whose journalistic work has helped shape our institution and society. And for the last two years we have an incident – free working relationship. However, the action of our officers, indicates that there is still work that we must do, to better protect journalists and reporters, so that they can play their part in keeping the public informed without fear or favour. We are going to ensure that they go about their work without being intimidated, attacked or threatened,
We have also sent out a new administrative circular to all territorial commanders to regularly review their enforcement operations, in line with what the public rightly expects from them. As a result, we have taken action against the following officers for their failings during their enforcement operations; ASP Kamulya Sowali, the OC Field Force Unit Kira division, AIP Ogwang John Steven, the OC operations Wandegeya and PC Laker Harriet. They have been summoned by the Professional Standards Unit and are undergoing investigations to the fullest extent.
Once again, we look forward to working together to ensure that journalists operating within KMP and all other territorial jurisdictions, can continue doing their vital work of informing the public. We know that this trust and confidence had improved in the last two years, and we pledge to provide a better service to reporters and journalists, as we deal with the internal cultures and standards that negatively impact our working relationship.
SCP Enanga Fred
Police Spokesperson
12th April 2023
