NAIROBI: Kenya-based Nation Media Group (NMG) said on Tuesday it was holding talks with Uganda’s military to reopen its media outlets after soldiers shut down its newspapers, television and radio stations over the weekend.
Susan Nsibirwa, NMG’s managing director in Uganda, said negotiations were ongoing but staff remained unable to access company offices, which continued to be surrounded by military personnel.
Why Were the Media Outlets Closed?
Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ordered the closure of the Daily Monitor and NTV Uganda on Sunday, saying the outlets would remain shut until he authorised their reopening. He did not provide a reason for the decision.
According to Amnesty International, at least six media outlets were affected, including the Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda, Dembe FM, Spark TV, KFM and The East African.
What Has Been the Reaction?
Amnesty International condemned the closures, accusing Ugandan authorities of targeting independent media and restricting press freedom.
Meanwhile, Jim Risch, chairman of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, called for Washington to review its security relationship with Uganda, saying the shutdown of media organisations raised concerns about freedom of expression.
What Happens Next?
Kainerugaba said discussions over reopening the outlets were underway, but Uganda’s military had not announced when the affected media organisations would be allowed to resume operations.
The closures mark the latest restrictions on media and civil society in Uganda, where Kainerugaba has previously drawn criticism over statements directed at journalists and political opponents.