OP-ED- The Kigezi region is facing a crisis of journalistic integrity, as local reporters are increasingly divided along partisan lines, because of fragmentation of politicians. This partisan allegiance has led to a loss of independence, with many journalists now indebted to patronage and political influence, and writing stories as desired by their masters!
This has compromised journalism and is far-reaching. An imbalance in reporting has resulted in the consequences of marginalization of critical issues affecting our region. Matters of concern to the local community – are being swept under the rug, ignored by journalists more interested in serving their political masters than in holding those in power accountable.
When President Museveni visited the region, Kigezi journalists were denied the opportunity to meet with him and share their stories. Instead, Ankole journalists were given the platform, leaving them to tell a story they weren’t familiar with, which is truly unfortunate. The one responsible for selection is a victim of devide and rule-which is unfortunate to the presidential crew. According to Robert Ndyamuhaki of Kigezi TV, only a handful of journalists were picked from Kigezi to meet Ankole journalists.
This not only silences the voices of the Kigezi people but also perpetuates a lack of understanding and representation. It’s a warning sign that the concerns and issues of the Kigezi region may continue to be overlooked, and their stories left untold. This is a de-service to the Fountain of Honor and Kigezi sub-region as well.
Sorry to the journalists who were excluded after dedicating three days to covering our beloved president’s events. I’m confident that once this reaches his attention, you will have the opportunity to meet with him independently. The scourge of corruption must be eradicated.
We should treat all equally. Journalists play a vital role in shaping our community’s future and promoting transparency and accountability. It’s imperative that we recognize the importance of a free press and work towards creating an environment where journalists can operate without fear or favor and without isolation. Those you might call “bad” journalists could be the ones with the real facts.
