Renowned CNN journalist Larry Madowo has raised serious concerns after receiving a threatening and abusive direct message while reporting from Uganda. Madowo is currently in the country covering the lead-up to the January 15, 2026, General Elections.
The journalist, who has been documenting early campaign activities across Uganda, shared a screenshot of the hostile message on his social media platforms, sparking a conversation on the safety of members of the fourth estate.
Hostile Message and Sexual Threats
The sender, identified as a Ugandan woman and a staunch supporter of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, warned Madowo to exit the country immediately. The message was not limited to political disagreement; it contained explicit sexual threats, insults, and vitriol directed at the journalist.
Furthermore, the sender launched hostile remarks at opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, famously known as Bobi Wine, accusing critics of the current regime of attempting to undermine Uganda’s national stability.
Madowo’s Defiant Response
Reacting to the escalation of online vitriol, Madowo took a defiant stance. Sharing the screenshot, he quipped, “This escalated quickly,” before pointedly asking his followers, “Which part should I be scared of?”
While the journalist appeared to downplay the immediate danger with his signature wit, the incident has highlighted the toxic environment journalists often navigate when covering politically sensitive topics in the East African region.
“The language used went beyond political disagreement, veering into personal abuse and threats of sexual violence,” noted a media observer.
Concerns Over Media Freedom
The incident has reignited discussions regarding the safety of foreign correspondents and local journalists during election cycles. Media freedom advocates have frequently warned that election periods in East Africa are often marred by:
- Online Harassment: Targeted attacks on journalists to silence critical reporting.
- Intimidation: Physical and digital threats from political extremists.
- Misinformation: The spread of false narratives to discredit professional reporting.
As the Uganda 2026 polls approach, international eyes remain on the safety of the press and the ability of journalists to report without fear of retribution or violence.
