Protecting Community Journalism Ahead of Uganda’s 2026 Elections
Across Uganda, especially in remote districts, community journalists and local broadcasters are the only credible source of news for millions. In areas where newspapers are rare and internet access is limited, these journalists carry the democratic burden of informing people about elections, land rights, public health, and local governance. Yet, under Section 27 of the Press and Journalists Act (Cap. 105), these voices face criminal charges simply for doing their jobs without a state-issued “practicing certificate.”
As Uganda prepares for its 2026 general elections, this outdated, colonial-era law presents a clear and present danger to media freedom, civic education, and public participation.
The Law That Silences Rural Media
The Press and Journalists Act, enacted in 1995, requires that anyone practicing journalism in Uganda must be registered with the Media Council and possess an annual practicing certificate issued by the government. Section 27 makes it a criminal offense to practice journalism without this certification.
LET UGANDA’S VOICES BE FREE: REPEAL THE PRESS AND JOURNALISTS ACT
SIGN NOWUgandans’ constitutional right to free expression is under attack. A colonial-era law the Press and Journalists Act is being used to silence journalists, censor creators, and intimidate anyone who dares to speak truth to power. Parliament must act now to uphold media freedom and democratic rights.
Campaign Objectives
To defend the right of rural-based journalists, community radio hosts, and digital storytellers to report freely without needing a government-issued practicing certificateas required under Section 27 of Uganda’s Press and Journalists Act. These local voices are essential to civic awareness, election transparency, and public accountability. Silencing them violates Uganda’s Constitution and international human rights law.
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