The Catholic priest Fr Lukyamuzi has called on journalists to uphold professionalism, truth, and integrity in their work, as mourners gathered for the funeral Mass of the late journalist Joseph Sseruwooza.
The service, held in Wakiso District, drew family members, media colleagues, political observers, and friends who gathered to celebrate the life of Sseruwooza, a parliamentary reporter and political talk show host at BBS Terefayina.
His work in Uganda’s media landscape earned him recognition for covering parliamentary proceedings and political developments.
A call for ethical responsibility
In his homily, Fr Lukyamuzi used the occasion to reflect on the role of journalism in society, describing it as a profession built on trust and responsibility. He said the late Sseruwooza’s dedication to reporting public affairs should inspire journalists to remain committed to accuracy and fairness.
He warned against growing ethical challenges in the media industry, including misinformation, sensational reporting, and the pressure to compromise standards for attention or influence. He emphasized that journalism loses its value when truth is sacrificed.
“Journalists are custodians of truth. Their work should uplift society, not mislead it,” he said, urging media practitioners to prioritize integrity over popularity.
Life and contribution of Sseruwooza
Speakers at the funeral described Sseruwooza as a hardworking and passionate journalist who played an active role in political reporting, particularly within parliamentary coverage. His colleagues said he had a strong ability to analyze political debates and present them in a way that was accessible to the public.
He was also remembered for his professionalism in the newsroom and his willingness to engage with complex political issues. Fellow journalists said his voice contributed meaningfully to Uganda’s public discourse, especially in the field of governance reporting.
Industry reflection and challenges
The funeral also became a moment of reflection on the broader struggles facing journalists in Uganda, including limited resources, job pressure, and increasing risks associated with political reporting.
Speakers stressed the importance of protecting journalistic independence and strengthening ethical standards within media institutions to ensure credible reporting in an era of fast-moving information.
Final farewell
The Mass concluded with prayers for the repose of Sseruwooza’s soul, followed by emotional tributes from family members and colleagues. Mourners later accompanied the body for burial, where he was laid to rest as friends and media practitioners paid their final respects.
He is remembered as a committed journalist who contributed significantly to parliamentary reporting and left behind a legacy of professionalism, dedication, and public service through media.
