Kampala, Uganda (Running Africa) — Uganda’s leading independent media house, Nation Media Group (NMG) Uganda, says it is under a “military siege” after Chief of Defense Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the closure of several of its major news outlets, escalating concerns over press freedom in the country.
Armed soldiers were deployed outside the company’s headquarters in Kampala, while broadcasters NTV Uganda and Spark TV were taken off the air. The crackdown also affected the Daily Monitor, one of Uganda’s most influential independent newspapers.
Gen. Kainerugaba, the son of President Yoweri Museveni, announced the move on social media, saying he does not believe in a free press and that the media must be controlled. He further declared that the affected outlets would remain closed until he personally authorizes their reopening.
Authorities have not provided an official explanation for the shutdown.
The action has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders, journalists, and human rights organizations, who describe it as an attack on independent journalism and freedom of expression. Critics argue the move reflects increasing political repression under President Museveni, who has been in power for nearly four decades.
The media crackdown also comes amid growing speculation that Gen. Kainerugaba is being positioned to succeed his father, raising fresh concerns over Uganda’s political future and democratic institutions.
Supporters of the government, however, maintain that President Museveni’s administration has delivered long-term political stability, improved security, and sustained economic growth, arguing that these achievements have benefited the country despite criticism from opposition groups.
