Exiled lawyer and activist Kakwenza Rukirabashaija has launched a scathing attack on sections of Kampala’s media, accusing journalists of undermining citizen reporting while allegedly benefiting from political and financial influence.
In a statement, Kakwenza criticised what he described as a pattern where mainstream journalists dismiss citizen journalism as unreliable, only to later rely on the same information once it gains traction.
He argued that this trend reflects deeper structural issues within Uganda’s media landscape, including compromised editorial independence.
According to the activist, some journalists have become entangled in public relations roles for political actors they are expected to scrutinise.
He claimed that financial relationships between media houses and government-linked entities have eroded accountability, resulting in limited critical coverage of powerful individuals.
Kakwenza cited the recent controversy surrounding Speaker Anita Annet Among as an example.
He alleged that earlier reports and online disclosures about alleged corruption were widely circulated by whistleblowers and citizen journalists but dismissed by mainstream outlets at the time.
He claimed that the narrative only shifted after changes in political dynamics, raising concerns about selective reporting.
“Nothing changed about the facts, only the bankrolling changed,” Kakwenza stated, suggesting that financial influence plays a significant role in determining news priorities.
The activist further warned that journalism risks losing its core function if it fails to question authority.
He described a media environment where political profiles resemble promotional material and government programmes are reported without scrutiny. Such practices, he argued, undermine public trust and weaken democratic accountability.
Kakwenza also pointed to economic pressures within the profession, noting that low pay among journalists may contribute to ethical compromises.
He suggested that financial vulnerability creates incentives for reporters to seek alternative income sources, potentially influencing editorial decisions.
Despite his criticism of mainstream media, Kakwenza expressed confidence in the growing role of citizen journalism.
He argued that individuals using digital platforms often operate without institutional pressure, making them more likely to publish information in the public interest.
His remarks come amid ongoing debates across East Africa about media independence, the rise of digital reporting, and the role of social media in shaping public discourse.