Journalists in the Teso sub-region have condemned the arrest and continued detention of NTV Uganda correspondent John Kenneth Odele, demanding that security agencies clarify the allegations against him and the legal basis for his detention.
The Teso Journalists for Community Empowerment (TEJFOCE) condemned Odele’s arrest, saying journalists should be allowed to execute their professional duties without intimidation or interference.Â
Odele, a Nation Media Group (NMG) correspondent covering the Teso sub-region, was arrested on Tuesday, November 10, while covering a security meeting at Soroti University convened by the minister of Security, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi.
He is currently being held at Soroti East Division Police Station, although the charges against him have not been officially communicated. He has also not recorded a statement.Â
According to TEJFOCE, a team of journalists visited Odele at the police station on Wednesday morning to establish the circumstances surrounding his arrest, assess his welfare and seek clarification from the authorities.
During the visit, some police officers reportedly indicated that the matter involved allegations of treason and was being handled by the Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI). Later in the afternoon, the journalists were further informed that Odele was expected to be transferred to CMI headquarters in Mbuya, Kampala.
In a statement signed by its vice chairman, Robert Edwomu, TEJFOCE expressed concern over the circumstances surrounding the arrest and called on the relevant authorities to provide clear and official information regarding the allegations against the journalist.
The organisation also demanded clarification on the legal basis for his continued detention.Â
“Our appeal is not intended to interfere with any lawful investigation but to call for fairness, accountability and respect for the rule of law,” the statement reads in part.
TEJFOCE said it stands in solidarity with Odele and called for justice, transparency and the protection of journalists in the execution of their professional duties. Odele’s arrest comes amid heightened security tensions in the Teso sub-region following the recent arrest of retired Gen Peter Elwelu over alleged subversive activities.
Journalists in the region say the incidents have created fear and uncertainty among media practitioners. Attempts by journalists to obtain a comment from the security agencies regarding Odele’s arrest have been unsuccessful.
As of Wednesday, no official statement had been issued by the security agencies detailing the specific allegations against Odele or the legal basis for his continued detention.