Journalists from across the Teso sub-region have resolved to work together in a renewed effort to restore professionalism, end impunity, and eliminate the growing culture of dependency on political handouts that has threatened the credibility of the media fraternity in the region.
The call was made during a meeting of the Teso Journalists for Community Empowerment (TEJFOCE) held today at Hyde Park, Soroti City.
The meeting, chaired by Mr. Opio Emmanuel, the association’s chairperson, brought together journalists from both public and private media houses to deliberate on unity, integrity, and sustainability of their work.
Mr. Opio, in his remarks, challenged journalists to remain steadfast in their work and avoid being manipulated by self-seeking politicians.
He said that journalists should draw a clear line between professional reporting and political propaganda, emphasizing that accepting handouts in exchange for biased coverage undermines the purpose of journalism.
“We must reject the temptation of being used by politicians for their interests. Journalism is a noble profession meant to inform, educate, and empower the community, not to serve as a tool for personal gain,” Opio said.
He further called on members to unite and speak with one voice, warning against divisions caused by the formation of parallel groups within the fraternity.
According to Opio, such disunity weakens the collective power of journalists and creates loopholes that politicians exploit to manipulate the media.
“Let us avoid creating multiple associations that confuse the public and divide journalists. When we are united, we can advocate more effectively for our rights, ethics, and welfare,” he added.
Mr. Opio also encouraged journalists to revive the saving culture within TEJFOCE by actively participating in the association’s savings group.
He said financial empowerment is key in reducing the vulnerability of journalists to external influence, noting that journalists who are economically independent are less likely to compromise their values for monetary gain.
“We need to build our own capacity through savings and small projects. That is the only way we can stop relying on handouts and operate independently,” he said.
Highlighting TEJFOCE’s contribution to community development, Opio said the association has been at the forefront of initiatives such as tree planting, environmental conservation campaigns, and documentation of impact stories that promote social change.
He said such activities reflect the organization’s mission to empower communities through journalism and advocacy.
However, he expressed disappointment at individuals spreading false claims that TEJFOCE is being influenced by opposition politicians.
“These are lies being circulated by a few individuals who are fighting TEJFOCE to promote their own parallel associations. Our commitment is to professionalism, not politics,” Opio clarified.
He urged all journalists in Teso to stay focused on the common goal of strengthening the media landscape in the region, especially as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.
“As we enter the election season, I urge all journalists to prioritize their safety. Elections come and go, but your life is irreplaceable. Cover the campaigns professionally and avoid getting entangled in political conflicts,” he advised.
During the meeting, several journalists echoed the call for unity and professionalism.
Mr. Eddy Enuru of Next Media noted that some members’ reluctance to collaborate had slowed progress within the fraternity.
He urged journalists to work collectively rather than compete destructively.
“Our biggest challenge is lack of cooperation. Some journalists prefer to work in isolation, yet when we unite, we can achieve greater things,” Enuru said.
Mr. Emmanuel Odeke of Kyoga Veritas called on TEJFOCE members to be firm against individuals who undermine the growth of the association.
He encouraged the leadership of the Teso Media Initiative for Development (TEMID) and other smaller media groups to join forces with TEJFOCE in promoting the interests of journalists across the region.
“There is no need for rivalry. We are all working towards the same goal, empowering journalists and strengthening community voices. Let’s work together as one,” Odeke said.
Meanwhile, Mr. Kenneth Odele of NTV Uganda urged journalists to maintain discipline and financial responsibility within the association.
He appealed to members to repay ongoing loans and support the sustainability of TEJFOCE’s financial projects.
“We cannot strengthen our association when some members default on loans or fail to honor their commitments. Let’s be organized, accountable, and professional,” Odele emphasized.
He also warned journalists against being drawn into political games, saying that politicians often exploit divisions among journalists to control the media narrative in their favor.
“Politicians thrive where journalists are divided. Let’s end that trend and stand together for the truth,” he concluded.
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