Summary:
- According to Beingana, the assailants warned him to stop reporting on issues related to wetlands and other conservation areas, telling him to “go and report in Ankole.”
KYENJOJO: Unknown masked assailants attacked and assaulted TV West journalist Daniel Beingana in Kyenjojo District on Monday night, July 29, 2024.
The incident occurred at his home in Kabongo, Kyenjojo Town Council.
According to Beingana, the assailants warned him to stop reporting on issues related to wetlands and other conservation areas, telling him to “go and report in Ankole.”
They also stole his camera, laptop, and two camera batteries, severely hindering his ability to continue his work.
The Western Uganda FBO Network has condemned the brutal attack, calling it a blatant act of intimidation and a clear attempt to silence his critical voice.
“As a network of faith-based organizations and media professionals, we are deeply concerned about the growing threats to journalists and media freedom in our region. The attack on Daniel Beingana is a disturbing example of the risks journalists face when reporting on sensitive topics,” said Rev. Atuhaire Moses, Executive Director and Environment Activist at the Western Uganda FBO Network, on Tuesday morning.
Rev. Atuhaire, who also serves as the District Councilor for Kyarusozi Sub-county in Kyenjojo District, urged the government to take immediate action to protect journalists and ensure a safe environment for the media to operate.
He called on security operatives to investigate the attack and bring the perpetrators to justice.
He also encouraged the media to continue highlighting critical issues, including environmental conservation, and asked civil society organizations and religious actors to join in advocating for a free and independent media.
“Together, we must protect press freedom and the safety of journalists, promote transparency and accountability in governance, and support courageous reporting on critical issues,” he said.
He added “We stand in solidarity with Daniel Beingana and all journalists who risk their lives to tell important stories. We will continue to advocate for a free and independent media, and we call on all stakeholders to join us in this effort.”
As of press time, the police had not yet issued a statement regarding the incident.
