NMG Journalist Arrested in Soroti While Covering Security Meeting

A Nation Media Group (NMG) correspondent reporting in the Teso sub-region was arrested under unclear circumstances in Soroti City. Journalist John Kenneth Odele was detained while assigned to cover a high-profile security meeting at Soroti University.

The gathering was convened by the Minister of Security, Major General (Retired) Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, as part of a nationwide tour engaging regional intelligence officers. The discussions focused heavily on urging security personnel to monitor government projects and combat corruption.

However, the minister’s visit occurred against a backdrop of rising political and regional tensions in Teso. These tensions have been exacerbated by recent high-profile detentions, including that of former Chief of Defence Forces Lt Gen (rtd) Peter Elwelu. Local leaders, including those under the Iteso Cultural Union (ICU), have recently petitioned President Yoweri Museveni, expressing deep concern over a widening trust gap between the central government and the people of Teso.

Following his apprehension, Mr Odele was taken to the Soroti City Central Police Station. Local police commanders noted that details surrounding the grounds for his detention were being verified.

The incident has renewed intense debate regarding the safety and independence of media practitioners in Uganda. Just days prior, newly elected Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) President Emmanuel Kirunda publicly urged authorities to respect press freedom and human rights, cautioning that intimidation severely compromises the essential watchdog role of the press.

For more details on this developing story, read the full report on the Daily Monitor.