Uganda's top newsroom leaders have condemned escalating press freedom violations targeting independent media houses. The Uganda Editors' Guild states that outlets such as Nation Media Group and The Observer face systematic restrictions that violate constitutional protections and limit public access to information.
Nation Media Group has been blocked from covering events related to President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling party since March. On October 9, The Observer's offices were burglarized, and essential newsgathering equipment was stolen. Journalists have endured intimidation from security forces, particularly at the Kawempe North by-election.
The guild claims that these actions violate Article 29 of Uganda's Constitution and international human rights agreements. Authorities have denied parliamentary accreditation and created administrative barriers that obstruct reporting. The pattern suggests efforts to silence critical journalism ahead of the 2025 general elections.
The organization demands an immediate investigation into attacks on media workers and accountability for perpetrators. Leaders warn that continued violations threaten democratic governance and public confidence in institutions.
Nation Media Group has been blocked from covering events related to President Yoweri Museveni and the ruling party since March. On October 9, The Observer's offices were burglarized, and essential newsgathering equipment was stolen. Journalists have endured intimidation from security forces, particularly at the Kawempe North by-election.
The guild claims that these actions violate Article 29 of Uganda's Constitution and international human rights agreements. Authorities have denied parliamentary accreditation and created administrative barriers that obstruct reporting. The pattern suggests efforts to silence critical journalism ahead of the 2025 general elections.
The organization demands an immediate investigation into attacks on media workers and accountability for perpetrators. Leaders warn that continued violations threaten democratic governance and public confidence in institutions.
