Muhoozi orders closure of NTV Uganda, other major news outlets
Uganda's top military chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has sparked fresh controversy by announcing that his father, President Yoweri Museveni, entrusted him years ago with the authority to close down any media outlet he deems necessary.
In a bold social media statement, the Chief of Defence Forces revealed this long-held power while confirming its use against prominent voices in the country's media landscape. This move has left several major broadcasters and publications suddenly silent, raising eyebrows across East Africa about the state of press freedoms in the region.
The abrupt action targeted outlets under the Nation Media Group umbrella, including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, and the Daily Monitor newspaper, which went off air following a security operation at their Kampala offices. Observers link the crackdown to recent investigative stories and reports that scrutinized Uganda's political leadership and security apparatus. Muhoozi made it clear that future negative coverage would need prior approval from his office, signaling a tighter grip on public discourse. Many see this as a direct challenge to independent journalism in a nation already known for its complex political dynamics.
In his public remarks, the general expressed strong views against unrestricted media, insisting that outlets should align with revolutionary principles rather than operate freely. He emphasized that critical reporting on Uganda must first pass through official channels, a stance that has drawn swift concern from media watchdogs and rights advocates. This development echoes past tensions, including a notable 2013 incident when security forces raided the same newspaper's premises over sensitive political allegations tied to leadership succession.
As the affected media houses remain dark pending personal clearance from Muhoozi, questions linger about the long-term impact on information flow and public accountability in Uganda. The episode highlights ongoing struggles between state authority and the role of a vibrant press in shaping national conversations. For neighboring countries like Kenya, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance required to protect both security interests and democratic values in the region.
