Ugandan military authorities have ordered the closure of two prominent media houses, a move swiftly condemned by Commonwealth partners as a further erosion of press freedom in the East African nation. The shutdown, enforced by the Uganda People's Defence Force (UPDF) under the command of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, took effect on Wednesday, with soldiers stationed outside the offices of Daily Monitor and NBS Television in Kampala.
The army chief cited national security concerns, alleging that the outlets had published material inciting public disorder and undermining the integrity of the armed forces. In a statement broadcast on state television, General Kainerugaba warned that any media organisation found to be "spreading falsehoods and destabilising the country" would face similar action. The closures follow a series of confrontations between the government and independent media, including the recent suspension of several journalists.
International reaction was swift. The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, issued a statement expressing deep concern, noting that the shutdown contravenes the Commonwealth Charter's commitment to freedom of expression. "A free and independent press is a cornerstone of democratic societies," she said. "We urge the Ugandan authorities to reverse this decision immediately and to uphold the rule of law."
The British Foreign Office also weighed in, with a spokesperson describing the move as "a serious blow to democratic accountability". The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) added its voice, calling for the restoration of media freedoms in line with Uganda's international obligations.
Domestically, the crackdown has drawn criticism from opposition figures and civil society groups. The Uganda Journalists Association described the closures as "an assault on the constitution" and vowed to challenge the order in court. However, government officials defended the action, arguing that the media had overstepped its bounds by publishing what they termed "divisive and unpatriotic content".
This development comes amid a broader tightening of political space in Uganda ahead of the 2026 general elections. President Yoweri Museveni, who has held power since 1986, faces increasing scrutiny over his government's human rights record. The media shutdown is likely to further strain ties with Western donors, who provide significant aid to the country.
Analysts suggest that the army's direct intervention in media regulation marks a significant escalation. "This is not a routine regulatory action," said Dr. Sarah Bireete of the Kampala-based Centre for Peace and Conflict Studies. "It signals a willingness to use force to control the narrative, which is deeply troubling for democratic governance."
The Commonwealth is expected to discuss the matter at its next ministerial meeting, with some member states calling for targeted sanctions if the closures persist. Meanwhile, the two affected media houses remain closed, their staff uncertain about the future of independent journalism in Uganda.
