When Governments Fear the Mirror: Uganda’s Media Crackdowns and the Global Pattern of Silencing Independent Journalism
By Arthur Katabalwa The closure of major Ugandan media platforms once again raises an old question in African politics: when governments claim to fear misinformation, instability or political activism, are they protecting the state — or protecting themselves? Uganda is experiencing another dramatic confrontation between state power and independent journalism. Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, (pictured) publicly announced the closure of media operations associated with Nation Media Group Uganda, affecting outlets including Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda and Spark TV. Security personnel have reportedly deployed around media premises while broadcasting operations are interrupted. Public statements attributed to the military leadership have openly questioned the idea of a free press arguing instead for media aligned with the “revolution.” For many Ugandans, the events have felt shocking but not unfamiliar. Uganda’s relationship with media...
