Operations at two of Uganda's leading independent media organisations were brought to a halt on Sunday after soldiers were deployed to their offices in Kampala following an order from the country's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The affected outlets, Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda and other media platforms under the Kenya-based Nation Media Group, were reportedly forced off air, while staff members were prevented from accessing their workplaces.
General Kainerugaba, who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni, announced the decision through posts on his X account, stating that he does not believe in a free press and arguing that the media should operate under the guidance of what he described as "cadres of the revolution." He did not publicly provide a detailed reason for the shutdown.
The action has triggered widespread criticism from media rights organisations and observers, who say the closure raises fresh questions about press freedom in Uganda. The Daily Monitor has long been regarded as one of the country's most influential independent newspapers, while NTV Uganda is among its most-watched television stations.
This is not the first time the Daily Monitor has faced government action. In 2013, Ugandan security agencies temporarily shut down the newspaper and several affiliated media outlets following the publication of a politically sensitive story, a move that also drew international condemnation.
The latest crackdown comes at a time when Uganda continues to face growing scrutiny over civil liberties and media independence. Rights groups have repeatedly expressed concern over increasing pressure on journalists and independent news organisations covering political affairs.
As of Sunday evening, there had been no indication of when the affected media houses would be allowed to resume normal operations, while the Nation Media Group had yet to announce its next course of action.
