Oyam, Uganda – Police at Oyam Central Police Station have launched investigations into the violent assault of three journalists by a group of youth alleged to be supporters of the Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) in Oyam South.
The victims, identified as Solomon Okello of Dokolo Post, Eman Yonah Oruk of Shine FM, and Chris James Woo of Shine FM, were reportedly attacked by over 30 youth led by Nam Martin, an ambulance driver allegedly linked to Hon. Betty Amongi Akena.
The incident took place during the groundbreaking ceremony for the rehabilitation of a 7.6-kilometer road from Minakulu Town Council to Opuk Parish, Minakulu Subcounty.
According to reports, the assailants accused the journalists of taking photos and allegedly promoting Hon. Santa Alum, leading to heightened tensions in the area.
Witnesses say the attackers violently confronted the media personnel, inflicting bodily injuries on them.
While receiving treatment at a health facility in Oyam Town Council, Solomon Okello recounted the ordeal, stating: “Nam Martin and his group attacked me, leaving me with injuries. I am currently undergoing treatment for the wounds I sustained.”
Eman Yonah Oruk, another victim of the attack, called on UPC leadership in Oyam to urgently address internal party conflicts: “UPC leaders should convene a meeting as soon as possible to resolve their issues if they are serious about retaining their seats in the 2026 general elections.”
Journalist Daniel Ojara of Mega FM Gulu, who witnessed the attack, confirmed the events in a statement recorded at Oyam Central Police Station.
Meanwhile, Patrick Okino, Chairperson of the Lango Journalists Association, strongly condemned the assault, calling it a direct attack on press freedom: “This is a violation of journalistic rights and an attack on democracy. We call upon human rights organizations to take urgent action against such acts of violence.”
Oyam District Police Commander Job Mutegeki confirmed that a case of assault has been registered under SD REF: 23/11/02/2025, and investigations are underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Uganda Human Rights Network for Journalists lawyer Diana Flavia Nandudu expressed concern over the brutal attack on the journalists, questioning what could have led to such violence.
She announced that she would be travelling from Kampala to Oyam today to ensure that the assaulted journalists receive fair justice. Nandudu further pledged to cover their medical expenses.
The Chief Executive Officers of Dokolo Post, Ocen Christopher and Opio Anthony, also known as Opio Ocen, strongly condemned the attack.
They decried the assault on the journalists, noting that one of the victims is their own reporter. The media executives vowed to take all necessary steps to ensure justice for the victims and to hold those responsible accountable.
In a separate statement, Dr. Tanga Odoi, Chairperson of the NRM Electoral Commission, also denounced the attack on journalists, it as a “bad practice that must not be tolerated.”
The attack on these journalists has raised concerns over the safety of media personnel in politically charged environments.
The police have assured the public of a thorough investigation, while press freedom organizations are urging authorities to ensure the culprits are held accountable.
As investigations continue, the media fraternity in Lango and across Uganda awaits decisive action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
