He emphasized that while the suspect awaits court proceedings, the exposure of the girl’s face and voice on YouTube and other platforms is both unethical and dangerous.
The State Minister for Youth and Children Affairs, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, has cautioned bloggers and content creators against violating the rights of minors while reporting on a tragic Valentine’s Day incident in Matuga.
The incident, which shocked many Ugandans, involved a father, Herbert Musasizi who allegedly beat and killed his daughter’s 18-year-old boyfriend Martin Bukenya after reportedly finding the two at his home on Valentine’s Day. The suspect is currently in police custody as investigations continue.
However, the minister expressed deep concern not only about the crime itself but also about the manner in which the case has been handled in the public sphere. In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, the minister criticized bloggers for publicly interviewing and publishing images and videos of the young girl believed to be connected to the case without concealing her identity.
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“Respectful Attention @PoliceUg and all Security agencies,” the minister wrote. “Like many Ugandans, I am deeply disappointed by bloggers who continue to violate the rights of minors and victims. I feel compelled to speak out regarding the ongoing coverage of the tragic incident in Matuga involving the death of an 18-year-old.”
He emphasized that while the suspect awaits court proceedings, the exposure of the girl’s face and voice on YouTube and other platforms is both unethical and dangerous. According to the minister, such actions risk subjecting the minor to retaliation, public backlash, and additional emotional trauma.
“Exposing a girl child in such a sensitive and ongoing investigation is not only unethical but also dangerous,” he stated. “Minors deserve protection, privacy, and psychological support — not public exposure for views and engagement.”
The minister urged bloggers and digital content creators to act responsibly and to prioritize the safety and rights of children in their reporting. He also called upon the Uganda Police Force to expedite investigations into the matter and ensure that the suspect is arraigned before court in accordance with the law.
The tragic incident has sparked national debate about online ethics, child protection, and responsible reporting, with many citizens echoing the minister’s call for greater accountability in digital media spaces.