IFJ Condemns Killing of Television Journalist in Uganda

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has today condemned the killing of  Amon Thembo Wa’ Mupaghasya, a director of Mupaghasya Community Television Centre in Uganda.

 

“We are deeply shocked, and condemn in the strongest terms this cold blooded killing in the strongest terms,” said Gabriel Baglo, IFJ Africa Office Director. “We call on authorities to quickly investigate and bring the culprits to book.” 

 

According to the Uganda Journalists' Union (UJU),  Mr. Amon Thembo Wa’ Mupaghasya ( 42) , director of Mupaghasya Community Television Centre in Kasese Town, Western Uganda, was killed by unidentified attackers on Saturday 12 May as he was returning home from work.

 

The journalists' killers took his camera and equipment bag, UJU said. Police confirmed it had arrested suspects and investigations are underway.

 

‘’This is a deliberate move to intimidate journalists and stifle independent voices. We call on security forces to help arrest and prosecute the killers,” said Lucy Anyango Ekadu, UJU President.

 

Cases of press freedom violations have increased in Uganda in recent times with many journalists being intimidated and harassed by security forces. 

 

“Uganda authorities must ensure safety for journalists especially in the course of their work,"added Baglo.

 

For more information contact the IFJ : 221 33 867 95 86/87

The IFJ represents more than 600.000 journalists in 134 countries