Kampala, Uganda – Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, announced on Sunday the immediate shutdown of two of the country's prominent media organizations: the Daily Monitor newspaper and NTV Uganda. Kainerugaba, who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni, declared that these outlets would remain closed until they receive his explicit permission to reopen.

In a series of posts on the social media platform X, Kainerugaba stated his opposition to a free press, declaring, “In Uganda, I do not believe in a free press!” He further asserted that all future news stories concerning Uganda would require clearance from his office, indicating a new era of media control. This directive suggests that all media operations within Uganda will henceforth be subject to his approval.

The Daily Monitor, recognized as the nation's largest independent daily newspaper, and NTV Uganda, a major private broadcaster, are both owned by the conglomerate Nation Media Group (NMG). Reports from the scene indicated that armed security personnel had been deployed to NMG Uganda’s headquarters in Kampala, restricting access and egress for staff. NTV Uganda, along with other NMG-owned broadcasters like Spark TV, were reportedly off the air across the country on Sunday.

Kainerugaba claims he has possessed the authority to close media outlets since 2017, a power he states was granted by his father, President Museveni. President Museveni has been in power since 1986, and his son is widely viewed as a potential successor. This move follows a pattern of government actions against media, including the temporary closure of the Daily Monitor in 2013 and the de-platforming of NTV Uganda shortly after its launch in 2007 due to critical coverage.

Official statements from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), the Uganda Police Force, and the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) regarding the shutdown have not yet been released. The Uganda National Association of Broadcasters expressed deep concern over the action, calling it a threat to the media ecosystem and constitutional rights, and stated they are closely monitoring the developing situation.

This development raises significant questions about the future of media freedom in Uganda. The Daily Monitor has a long history of investigative journalism and critical reporting, often challenging government narratives. NTV Uganda has also been a significant platform for public discourse and news dissemination.

Past instances of government intervention in Ugandan media suggest a recurring tension between state authorities and independent news organizations. The closure order from the military chief, bypassing civilian regulatory bodies, marks a notable escalation in this dynamic.

As the situation unfolds, stakeholders and observers will be keenly watching for further directives from Kainerugaba's office and the official response from government agencies. The long-term implications for press freedom, public access to information, and Uganda's international standing remain to be seen.