Judiciary issues new media, security guidelines for court proceedings

What the report says

The Judiciary of Uganda has announced new media and security rules for court proceedings, with the stated aim of reducing misinformation, protecting witnesses and victims, and keeping hearings orderly. Nile Post reported that the guidance was announced on July 29, 2026 and is expected to be applied especially in high-profile trials.

According to Judiciary spokesperson James Ereemye Mawanda, who discussed the measures on Salam TV’s Judiciary program, access to courtrooms will remain open to the public in principle but will be controlled according to space and the needs of the case. Priority will go to core court participants, including judges, clerks, lawyers, accused persons, victims and witnesses, while accredited media and other members of the public may be admitted if room is available.

Journalists covering trials will now need prior accreditation from the Judiciary’s Public Relations Officer, and the number of reporters may be limited. Reporters must also submit equipment for screening before entry, and requests to broadcast proceedings live will be reviewed individually. The guidance further restricts photography and videography inside courtrooms, especially images of judges and witnesses, unless the court authorizes it.

The Judiciary says the changes are intended to safeguard security and preserve the integrity of proceedings while still upholding open justice. In broader context, courts in many jurisdictions impose similar controls when balancing public access, fair trial rights and media reporting in sensitive cases.