Two journalists have reportedly been detained at a military court in Kampala after attempting to cover proceedings involving General Birungi, raising fresh concerns about press freedom and access to public interest events.
According to a statement issued by NBS journalist Kungu Al-Mahadi Adam, the affected reporters include Judith Kukunda of Uganda Radio Network (URN) and Margaret Zalwango.
The two were allegedly held at the Court Martial on accusations of accessing the premises without the required clearance.
The incident is said to have occurred as the journalists sought to report on an ongoing case involving Gen. Birungi, a matter that has attracted public attention.
Details surrounding the nature of the proceedings remain limited, but the presence of journalists suggests significant public interest in the case.
Kungu indicated that, in addition to their detention, security personnel confiscated the journalists’ working equipment, including mobile phones, cameras, and other recording devices.
The move has sparked concern among media practitioners, who view such actions as a potential infringement on the role of the press in covering judicial and quasi-judicial proceedings.
It remains unclear how long the journalists will be held or whether formal charges will be brought against them.
Authorities have yet to issue an official statement clarifying the circumstances of the detention or the specific clearance requirements allegedly violated.
The development adds to a growing pattern of friction between security agencies and journalists in Uganda, particularly when covering sensitive cases involving military or political figures.
Media stakeholders have consistently called for clearer guidelines to ensure journalists can perform their duties without intimidation or undue restriction.