Speaker Among Directs Probe into Assault of Journalist by JAT Operatives

The Speaker of Parliament, Annet Anita Among, has ordered an immediate investigation into the alleged assault of TV journalist Miracle Ibbra by operatives of the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) during the nomination of National Unity Platform (NUP) candidate Erias Luyimba Nalukoola for Kawempe North on Wednesday, February 26, 2025.

Addressing Parliament on Thursday, Among dismissed claims that the government sanctioned the attack, emphasizing its duty to protect, not harm, citizens.

"It’s unfortunate what happened to the journalist. We must establish who was responsible because no one is above the law. However, the government cannot issue such an order," Among stated.

She tasked the Leader of Government Business, represented by State Minister for Trade David Bahati, with visiting the hospitalized journalist, initiating an investigation, and reporting back to Parliament.

The matter was raised in Parliament by the Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, who accused JAT operatives of brutally assaulting both Nalukoola and Ibbra. He questioned why the Anti-Terrorism Taskforce was present at a nomination event typically handled by the Uganda Police.

Ssenyonyi, who described Ibbra's condition as critical at Nsambya Hospital, demanded swift justice. He also criticized Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja for accusing him of slandering the government, arguing that such incidents damage its reputation more than any opposition statements.

In response, Minister Bahati cautioned against premature conclusions but assured Parliament that the government would pursue justice in the matter.