Frank Gashumba Blasts Media Houses That Don't Pay Journalists, Urges Financial Independence
Prominent political commentator and Human rights activist Frank Gashumba has strongly condemned media houses that exploit journalists by failing to pay their salaries, saying it is unacceptable for professionals to work for months without wages.
He made these remarks on Saturday at KCCA Grounds during a Thanksgiving prayer organized by journalists to dedicate themselves to God ahead of the 2026 election season.
The event was attended by high-profile figures, including Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) as the chief guest, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Faridah Nampiima from the Uganda Police, Frank Baine, the Public Relations Officer of the Uganda Prisons Service, and Hon. Kyofatogabye Kabuye, the Minister of State for Kampala.
Gashumba did not hold back in his criticism of media houses that mistreat journalists, pointing out a particular media house along Bwaise Road that reportedly goes for up to six months without paying its employees.
"This is pure exploitation. Journalists work tirelessly to inform the nation, yet some media owners refuse to pay them. It is shameful, and authorities must address this issue," Gashumba said, adding that no journalist should be forced into financial distress due to the negligence of their employers.
He also noted that some journalists are forced into political activism because of financial desperation, creating challenges for security operatives.
To counter these hardships, Gashumba urged journalists to embrace social media as a source of income and to form Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) to support themselves financially.
"It is disgraceful that the Electoral Commission (EC) is absent at such an important gathering, despite the significant role the media plays in elections. Journalists must be financially independent so they can hold institutions accountable without fear," he added.
The Thanksgiving event brought together media professionals, clergy, and government officials as journalists sought divine guidance for the crucial election period ahead. Many journalists in attendance echoed Gashumba’s remarks, calling for urgent need towards better welfare.
