Ibrahim Miracle, a journalist working with Christian-based Top Television, is fighting for his life at Nsambya Hospital after sustaining fatal injuries in a violent encounter with security operatives. The attack occurred while he was covering the nomination of candidates for the forthcoming Kawempe North by-election.
The incident took place on February 26, 2025, during a confrontation between supporters of Elias Luyimbaazi Nalukoola, the National Unity Platform (NUP) flag bearer, and security forces attempting to arrest an opposition candidate. Eyewitnesses told HRNJ-Uganda that security operatives, particularly those from the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT), became enraged after some individuals at the scene began throwing stones.
In response, the operatives allegedly resorted to indiscriminate violence, beating anyone in their path with black wires and firing gunshots into the air. Amid the chaos, Miracle was reportedly assaulted, suffering severe injuries to his face and both eyes.
The attack on Miracle has sparked outrage within the journalism community, with many condemning the excessive use of force against reporters in the line of duty. Robert Ssempala, Executive Director of HRNJ-Uganda, expressed grave concern over the brutal assault and called on the government to uphold journalists’ rights.
“We are deeply troubled by this violent attack on a journalist simply doing his job,” Ssempala stated. “There is a worrying increase in assaults on journalists, particularly those covering political opposition activities. We urge the government to ensure that security agencies respect journalists’ rights to gather information and report the truth without fear of reprisal.”
He further called for immediate action against the perpetrators to guarantee the safety and protection of journalists, especially during elections.
Livingstone Matovu, the Top TV news editor attending Miracle at his hospital bedside, provided an update on his condition.
“He was taken for a CT scan, and doctors have recommended an operation. However, he is in severe pain and experiencing intense headaches,” Matovu said. He also expressed gratitude to HRNJ-Uganda for covering Miracle’s medical expenses.
Luke Oweyesigire, the Kampala Metropolitan Police spokesperson, confirmed that the journalist was injured but denied responsibility on the part of security forces. He stated that investigations were underway to determine the cause of the incident.
“What we know is that there was a confrontation between security operatives and Nalukoola’s supporters after he attempted to hold a procession. When security tried to stop him, there was resistance, and stones started flying. The officers responded by dispersing the crowd,” Oweyesigire explained.
He added that medical examinations confirmed Miracle had been struck by a “blunt object” that caused injuries to his eyes. Investigations into the incident remain ongoing.
The attack on Ibrahim Miracle underscores the increasing dangers journalists face while covering politically sensitive events. As calls for justice grow louder, many are urging the government to take decisive action to protect press freedom and hold perpetrators accountable.
