Media Reacts Positively to Oboth's Pledge on Press Freedom

Newly elected Speaker of Parliament Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth has ignited hope within Uganda’s media fraternity by vowing to foster a transparent working relationship with journalists. In his inaugural address to the 12th Parliament, Oboth-Oboth emphasized that the media should be viewed not as an adversary, but as a crucial component of accountability and public access to information.

This stance is being viewed as a welcome departure from the more restrictive climate experienced under the previous Speaker, particularly following incidents where journalists were denied access to parliamentary proceedings. Representatives from media organizations have cautiously welcomed the pledge, acknowledging the history of declining press freedom rankings in Uganda.

While acknowledging the encouraging words, media advocates stress that the true measure of this commitment will be in its practical implementation. They are calling for concrete reforms that not only promote press freedom but also ensure the sustainability and adequate funding of the media industry. Some veteran journalists and legal professionals remain guardedly skeptical, noting that historical friction between political leaders and the press often arises when accountability is pursued.

The Uganda Journalists Association has expressed readiness for dialogue, asserting that the media is not an antagonist to the state or government institutions. The ultimate test, according to legal experts, will be whether previously less accessible parliamentary processes, such as those of the Appointments Committee, are opened for public and media scrutiny under Speaker Oboth-Oboth’s leadership.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/media-welcome-oboth-s-pledge-on-press-freedom-5475018