By Spy Uganda
Kampala: In moments when the freedom of the press is tested, true leadership is often revealed, not through grand gestures, but through empathy, unity, and action.
This week, the media fraternity in Uganda stood shoulder to shoulder following reports that Nation Media Group journalists were denied entry to cover parliamentary proceedings, an incident that sparked widespread discussion about press freedom and professionalism.
Among those who added their voice was Kin Kariisa, the Group CEO of Next Media, whose response captured what many in the industry felt, that journalism is not a crime, and that the media must stand together to protect the integrity of the profession.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Kariisa wrote: “One Uganda, let us protect one another with humility and kindness; don’t let this volatile season tear us apart. We all matter, we all belong. Our media is vital to our shared future. We need credible journalism and one another, Uganda is our motherland, and it is all we have.”
It was more than a message of sympathy; it was a reminder that media solidarity is crucial, especially during politically charged seasons like this one. Kariisa’s tone, humble, unifying, and forward-looking, reflected a leadership style grounded in dialogue rather than defensiveness.
This isn’t the first time he’s spoken up for the fraternity. During the Kawempe by-elections, he condemned acts of violence against journalists, calling for “a better environment to enable the media to do its work.”
His consistency in speaking out has positioned him as one of the media leaders advocating for a more open, respectful space for journalism in Uganda. But what stood out most was what happened next. When a follower responded to his post, respectfully challenging Next Media to ensure balanced coverage, Kariisa didn’t ignore or dismiss the feedback.
He replied with openness, writing: “Respectfully — thank you for the feedback, Tabz my young bro, we aim to cover all candidates professionally and with balance. We take feedback seriously; please inbox me with specific areas you feel we should improve. We host all sides and try our best, I believe our teams have worked really hard.”
The media plays a central role in shaping public understanding and national dialogue and that work is only possible when practitioners support one another, defend journalistic freedom, and engage their audiences with integrity and respect.
In a time when narratives can easily divide, Uganda’s media community continues to remind the nation that unity and credible journalism are at the heart of democracy.
