‘’Don’t bow down to politicians,’’ journalists advised
‘’Don’t give room to politicians, never be compromised, set standards, have a mind of ethics, and do objective reporting, and this can be achieved through income-generating activities,’’ he advised.
Masindi: Journalists from Greater Masindi have been advised not to bow down to politicians since it will compromise them while executing their duties.
The call was made by Steven Wandera, the outgoing president of the Greater Masindi Media Practitioners Association (GMEPA), during the 5th Annual General Meeting (AGM) held at the D’Venue Hotel on Saturday, August 24, 2024.
GMEPA is an umbrella that unites journalists from the three districts of Masindi, Buliisa, and Kiryandongo. Apparently, it has over 30 active members.
GMEPA is actively promoting ethical journalism and encouraging journalists to maintain their independence.
Wandera’s advice highlights the importance of journalists standing firm against political pressure and maintaining their integrity. He notes that by diversifying their income through side businesses, journalists can reduce their vulnerability to external influence.
‘’This approach allows them to focus on objective reporting without compromising their professional standards. It’s unfortunate that some politicians attempt to censor the media by pressuring journalists to report in their favor, even to the point of jeopardizing their jobs.’’
According to Wandera, the incoming executive should address such issues to safeguard journalistic integrity.
Augustus Bigirwenkya, the GMEPA founder, emphasizes unity within GMEPA, stressing that politicians often exploit divisions to weaken organizations.
He notes that maintaining a cohesive membership is essential for the association’s progress. ‘’As the outgoing president, Wandera should continue to provide guidance and support to both the executive team and members, ensuring the association’s continued success,’’ he advised.
During the same meeting, GMEPA members brought in a new executive committee, and here are the elected members and their roles: Yosam Gucwaki (Vision Group journalist) received 18 votes and is now the incoming GMEPA President after winning Sherifah Nabule, a Kings FM presenter, who secured 8 votes.
Ismail Bategeka (Daily Monitor) secured 16 votes and was declared the GMEPA vice president after battling a tight race with Charity Atuhuura of BBS FM, who garnered 10 votes.
Innocent Atuganyira (ugreports.co.ug) was elected as the general secretary; Marion Kabagenyi (Kibanda FM) will serve as the treasurer; Teddy Kabasindi (BBS FM) and Joel Tinkasimiire (Ttv Uganda) were elected as executive members and went through unopposed.
Innocent Turyahikayo presided over the elections, ensuring a fair process. After the results, Yosam Gucwaki expressed his commitment to lobbying for the association and fostering unity among journalists.
Sherifah Nabule, despite losing, has pledged her support to the elected members. Ismail Bategeka aims to serve the association diligently, and Charity Atuhuura, though unsuccessful, remains supportive of the team’s efforts.
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