TAKEAWAYS

• Mujuni says his academic background in government and international relations complements his journalism experience.
• He reflects on the risks journalists face in Uganda and the economic pressures facing traditional media.
• He describes the death of King Oyo Nyimba as tragic, citing the monarch’s history and his late emergence from regency.

Former NTV journalist Raymond Mujuni has offered a glimpse into his career choices, his experiences in journalism and his reflections on Tooro Kingdom, as he faces growing scrutiny following his move into public service.

Mujuni, who was recently appointed Senior Policy Adviser at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, built a reputation as an outspoken journalist and government critic, particularly through investigative reporting and public affairs programming. His appointment has sparked debate, with some Ugandans questioning his transition into government after years of reporting on governance and accountability.

Speaking in an interview, Mujuni explained that his background was not limited to journalism, noting that he had studied government and international relations before building his media career.

“I was educated for government and international relations,” he said, adding that he viewed himself as a government scholar working within journalism.

He also highlighted the economic pressures facing traditional media, pointing to declining newspaper sales and changing advertising patterns as businesses increasingly turn to influencers and digital platforms.

Reflecting on his experiences covering public affairs, Mujuni recounted an incident following Uganda’s 2016 elections when crime preventers were deployed to his home under the explanation that they were providing additional security. He said the experience left him worried about his safety.

His account comes amid broader discussions about press freedom and the risks journalists face while investigating sensitive issues.

On his personal journey, Mujuni said he had reached a stage where he wanted to make a meaningful contribution in areas where he believed he could have the greatest impact.

“I need to be of import in the way in which I think I can be of import,” he said.

Mujuni also addressed the death of Tooro’s King Oyo Nyimba, describing it as particularly tragic because the monarch had only recently begun stepping out of the influence of regents and family members to pursue his own ambitions.

“For someone like that, who’s merely starting out life to die… it’s tragic,” he said.

He further explained that Tooro’s traditions, including its arrangements for preparing heirs to the throne, were shaped by the kingdom’s historical experiences and past conflicts.

His comments come after the succession dispute that followed Oyo’s death attracted national attention.

As debate continues over Mujuni’s transition from journalism to government, his comments offer insight into how he views his professional journey, the media industry and the institutions shaping Uganda’s public life.