Uganda Journalists Association Demands Justice for Tortured Journalist Lemisa Moses, Threatens Action Against Police Brutality
The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has issued a strong statement condemning the alleged torture of senior journalist Lemisa Moses, who works with Bukedde Paper, a part of the Vision Group. According to UJA spokesperson Kabuye Ronald, Moses was reportedly tortured into a coma by two police officers at Kapapaali Mulago Police post while carrying out his duties on Thursday, February 22, 2024.
In a press release, Kabuye provided a detailed account of the incident, stating that Moses was brutally arrested by two police officers during an eviction operation while he was investigating a story in the area. He was charged with criminal trespass on the police post, despite presenting his identification to the officers.
The arresting officers allegedly pushed Moses to the ground, causing him to sustain severe injuries to his head and other body parts, and damaging his camera. They confiscated his camera, phone, and identification card, and even took money from his pocket before throwing him into a police cell, where he lost consciousness and fainted.
Disturbingly, Kabuye noted that no care was provided to Moses by the police officers until other detained suspects demanded that he be taken to a nearby health facility to save his life.
UJA denounced the actions of the police officers as illegal and a clear violation of Moses’ individual rights and press freedom. They called on the Inspector General of Police (IGP) to investigate the matter and reprimand the two officers within one week from February 23, 2024.
Additionally, UJA demanded that the officers apologize to Moses, compensate him for his damaged camera, cover his medical expenses, and return the money they took from him.
If no response is received regarding the matter, UJA threatened to take further action, including organizing a demonstration of journalists against increased impunity and seeking legal redress.
The incident has sparked outrage among journalists and advocates for press freedom in Uganda, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by journalists in the country. UJA remains committed to seeking justice for Moses and ensuring the safety and protection of journalists in Uganda.
