The Ugandan army has forcibly closed multiple media outlets, marking a significant escalation in state control over information. The British High Commission in Kampala has condemned what it terms a 'crackdown' on press freedom, urging the government to restore independent journalism.
Witnesses report that military personnel entered the offices of several news organisations on Thursday, seizing equipment and ordering staff to leave. The closures come amid heightened political tension ahead of anticipated protests. The affected outlets include both print and broadcasters known for critical coverage of the administration.
In a statement, the British High Commission expressed deep concern, emphasising that a free press is 'fundamental to democracy and accountability'. The commission called on Ugandan authorities to respect constitutional guarantees of media freedom and to reverse the closures immediately.
This action follows a pattern of increasing restrictions on independent voices in Uganda. The government has previously blocked social media platforms and arrested journalists. The army cited 'national security' as justification, but critics argue this is a pretext to silence dissent.
The international community is watching closely. With the United Nations and press freedom organisations also voicing alarm, the pressure on President Yoweri Museveni's government is mounting. The coming days will be critical in determining whether this is an isolated incident or the beginning of a broader campaign against civil liberties.
