Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, widely known as Bobi Wine, has condemned the shutdown of major Nation Media Group (NMG) outlets, terming the move a direct attack on press freedom and democratic space.
His remarks come after security forces enforced the closure of NTV Uganda, Daily Monitor, Dembe FM, and Spark TV in an overnight operation in Kampala.
In a statement, the National Unity Platform (NUP) president accused Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba of executing the shutdown with the full backing of President Yoweri Museveni.
“Museveni’s criminal son, acting with his father’s full approval, has moved to silence Uganda’s remaining independent voices by shutting down NTV Uganda, Daily Monitor, Dembe FM, and Spark TV,” Bobi Wine said.
The opposition leader described the development as evidence of deepening authoritarianism, arguing that the country is increasingly being governed through force rather than the rule of law.
“This is the harsh reality we now face, a country under open military rule, where fear replaces law and force replaces accountability,” he added.
The shutdown followed a military deployment at NMG premises, where armed personnel reportedly blocked access to offices and forced broadcast stations off air.
Newspaper production at the Daily Monitor was also disrupted, effectively halting operations without a publicly stated legal basis.
Bobi Wine linked the incident to a broader pattern of repression targeting dissenting voices, particularly independent media houses that have maintained critical coverage of the government.
He warned that such actions often signal political insecurity rather than control.
“History is clear. Dictators always escalate repression towards their fall, pressing every button in desperation, until they press the one they never expected to be their last,” he stated.
Despite the escalating tensions, the NUP leader expressed confidence that the situation would eventually shift, framing the current crackdown as part of a larger political cycle.
“Uganda will be free!” he declared.
Authorities have yet to provide a detailed explanation for the shutdown, although General Muhoozi has previously defended his authority over media operations.
The developments have triggered concern among journalists, civil society groups, and regional observers, with growing fears over shrinking civic space and increased military influence in civilian affairs.