Uganda's leading independent media group is reportedly under military control after the army chief, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ordered the closure of television stations, newspapers, and radio outlets.
The Daily Monitor newspaper reported that armed soldiers were stationed outside its headquarters in the capital, Kampala. NTV and Spark TV have reportedly been taken off the air. These outlets are part of the Nation Media Group, a significant media company in East Africa.
Gen. Kainerugaba, who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni, stated on the social media platform X that he does not believe in a free press and that media should be guided by "cadres of the revolution." He further indicated that NTV and Daily Monitor would "not re-open without my permission," adding that "From now on ALL media in Uganda will follow the rules!"
It remains unclear what specifically precipitated the crackdown. However, opposition figures and human rights organizations have accused Gen. Kainerugaba of playing a central role in a repressive regime led by his father. Supporters of the president and his family contend they have ensured stability in Uganda and that the economy has improved under their leadership.
President Museveni, 81, a former rebel leader, assumed power approximately 40 years ago. He secured a seventh term in office in disputed elections held in January. There is widespread speculation that he is grooming his son to be his successor.
Gen. Kainerugaba, who holds the position of Chief of Defence Forces, claimed on X that his father had granted him the "power to shut down any media house I want to."