Uganda's Edith Nakalema Apologizes to Journalists, Signals Shift in Government-Media Relations

 

Edith Nakalema is making waves in Uganda because the head of the State House Investors Protection Unit issued a public apology on behalf of security forces for their harassment of journalists, especially during the Kawempe North by-election.

During a visit to Next Media Park, she praised Kin Kariisa as a “national treasure” and expressed a strong commitment to restoring trust and improving relations between the Ugandan government and the media.

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Nakalema’s remarks come ahead of the 2026 general elections, a period marked by heightened political tension and increased scrutiny of media freedom in Uganda. Her gesture has sparked significant online conversations and been amplified by major media houses. 

Given her close ties to the presidency and visible public profile, this move is seen as a calculated step to rebuild goodwill between state institutions and the country’s independent press.