CDF Muhoozi apologizes over journalists’ beating; says action regrettable and not sanctioned by UPDF

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen David Muhoozi has offered a public apology over the beating of journalists at UN human rights offices.

“That incident is regrettable and I want to take this opportunity to extend my apologies to those friends of ours who were assaulted,” said CDF Muhoozi.

On February 17, Bobi Wine of the National Unity Platform (NUP) delivered his petition to the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner on Human Rights (OHCHR).

Military police beat up reporters and other members of the NUP delegation, arguing that they flouted Covid19 guidelines, and for being part of an illegal assembly.

Those attacked included John Cliffe Wamala and Jeff Twesigye of NTV Uganda, Josephine Namakumbi and Joseph Sabiti of NBS, Rashid Nakayi of Galaxy FM, Vision Group’s Timothy Murungi and Irene Abalo of Daily Monitor.

Speaking from Mbuya, Kampala, a day later CDF Muhoozi noted that “the excesses exhibited [by security officials] were neither sanctioned nor were they justified.”

“The UPDF cares and recognizes the importance of a smooth partnership with the media and the population, our bedrock,” he continued.

“Therefore, we would be the last people to target journalists or anyone for that matter in an illegitimate way.”

He promised an investigation and punishment against officers involved.

“Appropriate action will therefore be taken against the identifiable culprits.”

The CDF also revealed the force would foot medical bills for the affected reporters.