Former Kira Municipality Member of Parliament Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has strongly condemned the shutdown of Nation Media Group (NMG) outlets in Uganda, describing the move as a dangerous escalation against press freedom and democratic space.
In a statement following the Saturday night closure of Daily Monitor and NTV Uganda, Ssemujju said the directive issued by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba marked a turning point for the country.
He argued that the action signals a growing intolerance toward independent media and dissenting voices.
“Muhoozi’s order to close Daily Monitor and NTV Uganda is the limit,” Ssemujju stated, calling on Ugandans to take collective action.
He urged citizens, civil society, and political actors to unite in response to what he termed as increasing authoritarian tendencies within the state.
The shutdown, carried out by armed security operatives deployed at NMG premises in Kampala, forced the media house’s television and broadcast operations off air.
Staff access to offices was restricted, and no official legal justification was immediately presented to explain the closure.
Ssemujju further linked the incident to President Yoweri Museveni, suggesting that the actions of his son, Gen. Muhoozi, reflect broader state approval.
“All this is happening with the blessing of his 82-year-old father,” he added, pointing to what he described as entrenched power dynamics within Uganda’s leadership.
The remarks come amid rising concerns over press freedom in Uganda, where media organizations have previously faced suspensions, raids, and regulatory pressure.
Nation Media Group, headquartered in Nairobi, is one of East Africa’s largest independent media organizations.
Its Ugandan operations, including Daily Monitor and NTV Uganda, have historically played a key role in investigative journalism and political reporting.