Another journalist assaulted at Ugandan election rally

By

Robert Ssewankambo

A journalist working with the Ugandan Masaka-based Buddu FM radio, Ali Golooba was on 11th January assaulted by six private guards of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer for the Bukoto South Parliamentary seat, Hajji Muyanja Mbabaali at Kiwangala Trading Center in the central Ugandan Lwengo district.

Golooba was covering a political rally in which Mbabaali launched his campaigns. He told press that the men dressed in black asked him why he was recording their candidate’s speech. “I was recording Hajji Mbabaali’s speech from one of the loud speakers when one of his private security guards with black sunglasses confronted me demanding to know why I was recording their candidate. As I explained myself, about five others pounced on me and started kicking, boxing and slapping me. They grabbed my audio recorder which they confiscated.” Golooba told press.

He said that the scuffle lasted for over ten minutes as the men roughed him up and tried to whisk him away, but was saved by other journalists and some of Mbabaali’s relatives. The rally was interrupted because of the scuffle. He told press that he sustained an injury on his right leg as well as pain in his chest and back because of the beating.

Golooba reported a case of assault at the Masaka Central Police Station. He has over five witnesses ready to record statements. Four other journalists have been attacked by politicians and or their supporters during campaigns in the same region and have since been taken to court.

Robert Ssewankambo

Robert Ssewankambo is a Ugandan writer. Working currently on a freelance basis, he is a regular contributor to major newspapers in Uganda and electronic online magazines and media sources in Africa, such as the Bukedde newspaper, Hindered radio, Red Pepper, Eddobozzi newspaper and African Interest online.

For media enquiries, contact Robert at the following email address: [email protected]