RESPECT JOURNALISTS

This is a journalist speaking from Makerere University. In Uganda, just like in many other developing countries, journalists are treated like criminals, if not worse. The representative government in Uganda does not recognise the media. Its role is neglected as the codes and draconian laws are enacted any time the powers that be feel like. The constitution states clearly that there is freedom of expression. According to Louis Hodges, a scholar on media ethics, scribes should act as checks and balances on the government and inform the public about the government dos and don'ts. But, I am surprised that in Uganda, the role has changed as the government is the one that puts checks on the media.
Look at our role model journalists like Andrew Mwenda of the independent, he has been in and out of prison, accused of sedition, defamation or name any crime you may think of, not to forget cases like interfering with national security.There should be a law indicating clearly how far the government should stretch its hand on the media not only giving media freedom of expression through the front door and taking it from them using the back door with reasons like national security. One leader in Kenya stated that no one is more Kenyan than him and everyone belongs and cares about his country same as the other and therefore journalists should be treated with respect just like any other person in the society.
We know the work of doctors, lawyers, teachers and we respect them without intervention. Why can't the journalists be left to perform their duty of informing the public without any government intervention?
SUSAN WAMUYU.