West Nile Journalists urged to be security partners in enhancing policies and feedback

By Geofrey Achora Jr

ARUA: Journalists and media owners across the West Nile region have been urged to embrace partnership as they enhance policing through feedback to the security agencies in order to adhere to compliance. #WhisperEyeNews

The Regional Police Commander West Nile Region advised the security officers to respect the rights of journalists as per Article 4 of the constitution of Uganda 1995 and as the Fourth Estate of government and ensure their safety, however, he urged journalists to understand their constitutional obligations in pursuit of their rights as journalists

The Arua City Commissioner (RCC) Dr Alice Akello, urged the journalists to work with all stakeholders especially the police and UPDF if they are to promote access to information and the safety of journalists.

“The work of a journalist is a call from God and so you should be professional at your work, as well as stop fabricating malicious stories.  You journalists are not politicians, and so should not take sides in politics” the RCC emphasized

The Police Spokesperson West Nile Region appreciated the cordial working relationship with journalists of West Nile Region and urged them to continue cooperating with Police, as well as exhibit ethical conduct and responsible journalism, which is a requirement for National Development.

UNESCO in Liaison with the Uganda Journalists Union (UJU) organized the engagement in a bid to create awareness and build the capacity of multi-stakeholders on the promotion of freedom of Expression, Access to Information, Safety of Journalists and ending impunity on crimes against journalists.

Uganda National Commission for UNESCO Assistant Secretary, Dr. Dominic Mundrugo while presenting the UNESCO report of 2019 highlighted that an estimated 530 journalists were killed worldwide over such a proposal was made to protect media practitioners, ensuring their freedom and safety

However, Brigade Overall Intelligence Coordinator (OIC) Lt Col Mpaka urged journalists to cooperate with the security forces for protection and be professional in order to avoid possible problems with law enforcers while executing their noble duties.

The stakeholders and dignitaries present were the Uganda Police, Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), media owners and practitioners, lawyers, human rights activists, religious leaders, journalists, and representatives from Non-Governmental organizations (NGOs).