Journalists Urged to Uphold Ethics and Transparency Ahead of 2026 Elections Amidst Growing Concerns of Unprofessionalism

As Uganda prepares for the 2026 general elections, journalists from the Kigezi and Ankole regions have been called upon to embrace their role as watchdogs, ensuring transparency in the electoral process. This comes against the backdrop of rising concerns over unprofessional reporting and the increasing presence of journalists in the field, some of whom are accused of failing to uphold basic standards of the profession.

One of the key moments in this push for ethical journalism was a screening of the Ugandan-produced film Call 112 by USAMA Mukwaya, which highlights issues of bad journalism, misinformation, and disinformation. The film served as a poignant reminder of the importance of responsible media coverage, especially as elections approach.

During a training for journalists organized by the Uganda Editors Guild at Las Vegas Garden Hotel in Mbarara City, Sylvia Nankya, Editor-in-Chief of Uganda Radio Network (URN) and a member of the Guild, stressed the importance of providing the public with accurate, verified, and balanced information. She noted that journalists play a vital role in holding institutions and political candidates accountable, ensuring that citizens are well-informed and able to make decisions that promote peace and democratic participation.

“As journalists, our duty is to ensure that citizens receive accurate and verified information,” Ms. Nankya explained. “We must hold institutions and candidates accountable while promoting peace and democratic participation.”

She went on to urge media practitioners to approach their work with professionalism and integrity. She emphasized that factual and responsible reporting is essential for informed decision-making by the public. Ms. Nankya also cautioned journalists against publishing unverified election results, using biased or emotional language, and accepting gifts or favors that could compromise their independence.

“Avoid rumours, stereotypes, and bias. Focus your reporting on the issues that affect the people,” she advised.

The training, which took place from Friday 17th to Saturday 18th October, is part of a nationwide initiative by the Uganda Editors Guild aimed at enhancing the capacity of journalists to cover elections in an ethical and effective manner. This initiative seeks to equip journalists with the skills and knowledge needed to navigate the complex landscape of electoral reporting while maintaining professionalism.

Pius Katunzi, Editor-in-Charge at The Observer newspaper, also weighed in on the importance of ethical journalism. He encouraged journalists to build public trust by adhering to professional and legal standards, and reminded them to familiarize themselves with broadcasting guidelines from the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), contractual obligations, and the Press and Journalists Act.

“Trust starts with us. Journalists must maintain neutrality and avoid open alignment with political candidates in order to preserve integrity and public confidence,” Katunzi said.

Addressing economic challenges faced by journalists, Godfrey Kajjubi, an editor at Vision Group, called for improvements in pay and working conditions. He argued that better remuneration would not only strengthen professionalism but also reduce the vulnerability of journalists to unethical practices.

“It is disheartening when journalists are expected to act ethically while other professionals behave otherwise,” said Perez Rumanzi, a journalist with the Daily Monitor. “Many journalists face financial hardships, yet they are still expected to reject bribes.”

Pius Katunzi emphasized the Guilds’ commitment to fostering a free, professional, and viable media that advances democracy, adding that their vision centers on strengthening editorial independence and promoting journalistic excellence, especially as the country prepares for a highly anticipated election season.

As the threat of disinformation and fake news looms large—particularly in the lead-up to the 2026 elections—Katunzi warned that false information is increasingly being manufactured to undermine public trust in mainstream media. It urged journalists to remain vigilant and uphold the highest ethical standards in their work.

“Propagandists increasingly use fake news to discredit mainstream professional journalism. We must remain vigilant and uphold ethical standards,” He said.

The role of journalists in Uganda, particularly as the country heads into the 2026 elections, is more crucial than ever. Upholding transparency, professionalism, and integrity in their reporting will ensure that citizens have the information they need to make informed decisions and protect the country’s democracy.