Human Rights Network for Journalists – Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda)

A number of Ugandan journalists were blocked by security forces from accessing the national airport at Entebbe to cover the return of an army officer. Some journalists were detained, and others had their equipment confiscated.

“The Quest for Safety and Security in Uganda” shows that the well-being of journalists is threatened by issues including a restrictive legal regime, impunity, and a lack of professionalism among security agencies.

Two dozen IFEX members call on Turkey to free prominent translator and women’s rights activist Ayşe Berktay, winner of the 2013 PEN/Barbara Goldsmith Freedom to Write Award.

Unknown person(s) broke into the office of the national coordinator of Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda on 22 April 2013, stealing a computer and photo camera. There had already been three unsuccessful attempts on the organisation’s office this year.

Geoffrey Wokulira Ssebaggala, national coordinator of the Human Rights Network for Journalists-Uganda, received the award because of his consistency in recording and highlighting limitations of freedom of expression.

Two journalists covering the escape of inmates were assaulted and detained by prison warders from the Kalisizo government prison in the Rakai district.

The Uganda Communications Commission has extended the deadline for compulsory SIM card registrations by 90 days. The extension came after human rights groups sought a legal injunction against the original deadline.

The Lord Mayor of Uganda’s Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), Elias Lukwago, has suspended journalists working with the Vision Group from covering his press conferences, accusing them of biased reporting.