Teso journalists condemn arrest and detention of NTV reporter

What the report says

Journalists in Uganda’s Teso sub-region have condemned the arrest and continued detention of NTV Uganda correspondent John Kenneth Odele, calling on security agencies to explain the allegations against him and the legal grounds for holding him. The complaint came from the Teso Journalists for Community Empowerment (TEJFOCE), which said reporters should be able to do their work without intimidation or interference.

According to The Observer, Odele was arrested on Tuesday, November 10, while covering a security meeting at Soroti University that was convened by Security Minister Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi. He was being held at Soroti East Division Police Station, and the article said no formal charges had been communicated publicly and he had not recorded a statement. Journalists who visited him on Wednesday reportedly sought clarification from police about the arrest and his welfare.

The report said some officers later suggested the matter involved treason allegations and was being handled by the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence, with possible transfer to CMI headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala. TEJFOCE said it was not trying to obstruct any lawful investigation, but wanted transparency, accountability and respect for the rule of law.

The case has added to concern among media workers in the region, where journalists say recent security developments have created fear and uncertainty. As reported by The Observer, security agencies had not issued an official statement by Wednesday explaining the specific allegations or the basis for Odele’s detention.