Journalists trained on reporting about Special Interest Groups

8 July 2025, 8:43 pm

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) has conducted a half-day training for journalists from various districts, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to report on Special Interest Groups (SIGs). The training aimed at enhancing the capacity of journalists to provide accurate and informative coverage of SIGs, particularly as the Electoral Commission prepares to organize SIG elections nationwide.

In his opening remarks, the Electoral Commission Spokesperson Julius Mucunguzi emphasized the crucial role journalists play in disseminating information to the public. He encouraged journalists to be discerning in their reporting, providing accurate and unbiased information to their audiences.

“The media plays a vital role in shaping public opinion and informing citizens about the activities of Special Interest Groups,” Mucunguzi said. Adding that, “We urge journalists to be objective and balanced in their reporting, providing citizens with the information they need to make informed decisions.” He stated. The training covered various aspects of reporting on SIGs, including understanding the role and functions of SIGs, identifying and tracking SIG activities and maintaining objectivity and independence in reporting.

Journalists who attended the training expressed appreciation for the opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge on reporting SIGs. They pledged to provide accurate and informative coverage of SIG activities, contributing to a more informed and engaged citizenry. As the Electoral Commission prepares to organize SIG elections, the training is timely and relevant, empowering journalists to provide comprehensive coverage of the electoral process.

Patricia Awor, who represented the chairperson of the Electoral Commission, Justice Simon Byabakama, thanked the media for attending the training and urged them to be transparent in whatever they report. “You’re very important people. We want you to report the right things as you do your work, especially the commission’s activities,” she said. Kayondo Abubaker, the representative of legal department, reminded journalists that all the laws that were used in the last elections were revised. Some of these laws include the Electoral Commission Act 176, Parliamentary laws of Uganda, Local government Act, among others.