KABALE – Kabale-based journalists have today stormed the office of Kabale Resident District Commission Godfrey Nyakahuma over continued harassment and threatening of journalists by the Kabale district LCV Chairman Nelson Nshangabasheija.
Among the group was Sam Amanya from Uganda Radio Network, Lukia Nantaba representing NBS TV, Richard Akandwanaho of African Pearl News, Gideon Tumwijukye, Innocent Ruhangariyo (both affiliated with Peak Radio), Emmanuel Arineitwe from Voice of Kigezi, and Obed Kankiriho from The Source News, alongside several others. Their primary concern was the apparent reluctance of the Kabale Police to pursue cases of violence and threats against the Chairman.
This protest was triggered by an incident where Nshangabasheija allegedly threatened to kill Jimmy Emmanuel, a journalist from Voice of Kigezi, accusing him of not supporting the Chairman. Jimmy recounted an encounter on Tuesday at TikTok bar in Kigongi Central division Kabale municipality, where Nshangabasheija reportedly threatened him with harm, prompting intervention from fellow patrons and the bar staff.
Despite Jimmy’s attempt to report the incident at Kabale Central Police station, officers refused to register the case without DPC’s approval. Subsequent follow-ups with Kabale District Police Commander Abel Ruganza proved futile, as promised callbacks went unanswered. Frustrated by the lack of action, the journalists sought intervention from RDC Nyakahuma.
Nshangabasheija’s alleged pattern of intimidation extends beyond verbal threats, as he reportedly barred Jimmy from covering an award ceremony at Kabale District last week. Additionally, the Chairman previously threatened Kigezi Television Journalist Norbert Ndyamuhakyi, causing Ndyamuhakyi to live in fear.
Jimmy highlighted the potential danger, emphasizing Nshangabasheija’s armed status and the risk associated with unfriendly encounters, particularly when he’s intoxicated.
Cue in Jimmy…on Chairman’s gun……Eng//
When the journalists approached RDC Nyakahuma, he promptly called DPC Ruganza, instructing the registration of the case and summoning Nshangabasheija for investigation. Following this, the journalists proceeded to the DPC’s office, where the case was officially registered, and Nshangabasheija was summoned to appear at Kabale Police station at 2:00 PM for his statement.
The threatening violence case has been recorded at Kabale Central Police station under reference number SD REF: 31/01/12/2023. Jimmy urged the police to thoroughly investigate the matter, emphasizing the need for swift justice.
Cue in Jimmy….on the case……Eng//
As of press time, Nshangabasheija’s known telephone numbers were switched off.
