Kampala, Uganda – January 6, 2026 — The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has strongly condemned the violent assault of BBS Terefayina journalist Ivan Mbadi, calling for immediate, independent, and transparent investigations into the incident that occurred in Kween District.
According to the statement signed by Mr. Anthony Asiimwe, the Vice President of Uganda Law Society, Mr. Mbadi was attacked on January 5, 2026, by uniformed security operatives while lawfully carrying out his professional duties. The journalist was covering a campaign activity of presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu when the assault occurred.
“Video footage circulating on social media shows two security operatives forcefully restraining Mr. Mbadi, repeatedly smashing his head against a motor vehicle and destroying his professional camera equipment.” Reads part of the statement
ULS described the attack as brutal, unlawful, and a blatant violation of press freedom.
“This is not an isolated incident,” the Society said in a statement. “Over the years, journalists in Uganda have been beaten, tear gassed, arrested, intimidated, and had their equipment destroyed by security forces, particularly while covering political events and opposition figures.”
ULS emphasized that such actions have continually endangered the lives, dignity, and safety of journalists, warning that the State’s failure to hold perpetrators accountable amounts to an abuse of democracy and the rule of law.
“Journalism is not a crime. Covering political actors is not an offence,” the statement reads.
The Society reminded all state and security agencies that the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda guarantees press freedom and protects journalists in the lawful execution of their duties. It added that physical assaults on media practitioners violate constitutional protections and undermine democratic governance.
ULS has demanded that the officers responsible for the assault on Mr. Mbadi be identified and held accountable under the law. The legal body further pledged its unwavering support to journalists operating in hostile and dangerous environments.
In addition, the Society revealed that it has assembled a dedicated team of advocates to offer pro bono legal support to Mr. Mbadi and other media practitioners who have suffered violence at the hands of security operatives.
ULS said it will pursue all available legal remedies to ensure justice and accountability.
“The continued assault of journalists is unacceptable, and the Uganda Law Society will not remain silent in the face of such impunity,” the statement concluded.
