Journalists of Kabarole District show solidarity to defend their colleague

On 15^th May 2014, journalists of Kabarole District showed solidarity by escorting their fellow journalist Mr. Rogers Martin to Fort Portal High Court to the hearing of his case of seeking fairness from the radio proprietor of Life FM who failed to pay his monthly salary for six months. “Thank you colleagues for the solidarity that you showed at Fort Portal High Court when we accompanied our fellow journalist Mr. Martin Rogers to the hearing of his case. The matter was adjourned to 11^th June 2014 and we shall still go there to support him until he is paid”, said Tusiime Francis, the coordinator of Rwenzori Journalist Forum.

 

  Journalists of Kabarole District at Fort Portal High Court

Other journalists also praised each other for the solidarity that was shown. “United we stand, divided we fall. Members, keep the spirit forever”, said Rwaheru Bosco, a mentor at Life FM, “As journalists, we have to fight for our rights. If we work, why shouldn’t we be paid? Journalists should be respected and solidarity will make us strong”, said Bamanyisa Patrick Black, the Chairperson of Rwenzori Journalist Forum.

Radio mentors under Rwenzori Journalist Forum and Uganda Journalist Association also organized a half day symposium in Fort Portal Town, Kabarole District to celebrate the World Press Freedom Day. “As radio mentors, we organized a half day symposium in Fort Portal Town as part of the activities to mark World Press Freedom day that is always commemorated on 3^rd May annually. The local theme was “A free Media; deepening self regulation for national development”. This day is always observed to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom and to honor journalists who have lost their lives in pursuit of their profession”, Said Bamanyisa Patrick Black, the Chairperson of Rwenzori Journalist Forum.

Meanwhile, radio mentors of Kyenjojo FM have continued engaging their local leaders in accountability talk shows. “On 21^st May 2014, we hosted the District woman Member of Parliament for Kyenjojo District Hon Linda Timbigamba during the ‘Kihikire Program’ who gave accountability and indicated her insistence on going to the remaining Sub Counties of Mwenge North, despite the refusal of the Sub County Chairpersons”, said Lubega Elly, a mentor at Kyenjojo Development Radio in Kyenjojo District.

In conclusion, the Rwenzori Journalist Forum should be strengthened, motivated and considered for effective and efficient broadcasting and proper monitoring of service delivery and public accountability.