The shutdown of Nation Media Group (NMG) outlets in Uganda has escalated into a sharp political standoff, with former Leader of Opposition Winnie Kiiza directly faulting the military leadership and government over what she describes as a misplaced attack on journalists.
Security forces last week enforced the closure of key NMG platforms, including NTV Uganda, Daily Monitor, and KFM, following directives linked to Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The move saw broadcasts cut off and journalists locked out of their workplaces, sparking widespread concern over press freedom.
Reacting to the development, Kiiza argued that the shutdown exposes growing intolerance to scrutiny, warning that targeting media houses does not solve the issues driving negative coverage.
“The irony of shutting down a media house is that it punishes reporters for the actions of the people they’re covering,” Kiiza said. “It’s not the reporters’ fault that you’re caught up in scandals.”
Her remarks sharply shift focus back to those in power, suggesting that the real issue lies in governance and accountability rather than media conduct.
“If you want positive news coverage, behave responsibly, and the media will have little choice but to report good news,” she added.
Kiiza’s statement has intensified debate around the role of the military in civilian affairs, particularly in regulating media operations.
Critics argue that the involvement of security forces in shutting down a media house raises fundamental questions about institutional boundaries and democratic governance.
The government, however, has defended the move, linking it to unspecified security concerns.
Authorities maintain that the action followed internal assessments, though no detailed public explanation has been issued, leaving room for speculation and criticism.