Madowo’s presence in the country has drawn regional attention, highlighting the delicate balance between press freedom and political sensitivity in East Africa.
President Museveni had recently cautioned international journalists against what he termed as biased or disruptive reporting during Uganda’s political season.
His remarks were widely interpreted as a signal of heightened scrutiny of foreign media, particularly those with large global audiences.
Against this backdrop, Madowo’s continued reporting from Kampala has been viewed by observers as both a professional commitment and a test of media space in Uganda.
Madowo, a Kenyan journalist with extensive experience across Africa, has been reporting on campaign rallies, voter sentiments and the broader political climate ahead of the polls.
His coverage has focused on issues affecting ordinary Ugandans, including the cost of living, youth unemployment and the conduct of political actors.
Through CNN’s global platform, these developments are reaching an international audience.
Media freedom advocates have noted that Uganda has a history of tense relations with journalists during election periods, marked by arrests, deportations and restrictions on coverage.
Madowo himself has previously faced deportation from Uganda, a past experience that has sharpened public interest in his current assignment.
Despite the risks, the journalist’s presence underscores the role of the press in documenting political processes, especially in environments where access to information is contested.
Analysts argue that independent reporting is essential in promoting transparency and accountability, even when it attracts official displeasure.
As campaigns continue, attention remains fixed on how authorities will handle both local and international media.
For many, Madowo’s work in Kampala represents not defiance, but a reaffirmation of journalistic duty — to report facts, amplify public voices and bear witness during critical democratic moments.