Fresh criticism has emerged over the continued shutdown of major media outlets in Uganda, with Solomon Kampala, son of opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine, sharply condemning the closure of Nation Media Group (NMG) platforms.
In a statement, Kampala claimed it has been two weeks since the June 28 directive allegedly ordered by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba to switch off NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor.
He noted that the stations remain off air, raising concerns about press freedom and the state of democracy in the country.
“Why are we still fronting a fake democracy?” Kampala posed, arguing that the situation reflects deeper governance challenges.
He further suggested that authorities should “formally announce that Museveni is the supreme leader for life,” instead of maintaining what he described as a façade of democratic processes.
The remarks come amid growing unease among sections of Uganda’s opposition and civil society, who have repeatedly accused the government of tightening control over independent media.
Kampala criticized the use of public funds, alleging that taxpayers’ money is being spent on “propaganda and sham elections.”
He urged Ugandans to take the situation seriously, warning that the continued closure of leading media houses is not normal.
“Before we start talking about the future, we need to really understand the magnitude of this situation. Our future is being stolen in front of our eyes,” he said.
Nation Media Group, which operates NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor, is one of the largest independent media organizations in East Africa.
The shutdown of its Ugandan operations has sparked regional attention, with media watchdogs calling for transparency and adherence to constitutional protections on freedom of expression.
Authorities in Kampala have yet to issue a comprehensive public explanation regarding the prolonged blackout.
However, past confrontations between the state and independent media have often centered on coverage of opposition activities and security-related concerns.