Legislators accused Parliament of blocking NTV Uganda journalists from the building on Tuesday after the broadcaster reported on unopposed leadership elections that critics say undermine democratic competition. Security officers withdrew press credentials and denied entry to reporters who covered stories questioning why Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa faced no challengers when winning their positions.
Butambala County MP Muwanga Kivumbi said the action shows intolerance toward media criticism as the country approaches the 2026 general elections. Opposition Leader Joel Ssenyonyi said Parliament leadership retaliated against NTV for examining the rise of uncontested races among political figures. He described the ban as shameful and called for the restoration of access to the press.
Deputy Speaker Tayebwa said he knew nothing about the incident and would check with the clerk about accreditation procedures. He said parliamentary leaders do not participate in granting or removing media access. The Parliamentary Commission released no formal statement explaining why it suspended NTV coverage rights.
Butambala County MP Muwanga Kivumbi said the action shows intolerance toward media criticism as the country approaches the 2026 general elections. Opposition Leader Joel Ssenyonyi said Parliament leadership retaliated against NTV for examining the rise of uncontested races among political figures. He described the ban as shameful and called for the restoration of access to the press.
Deputy Speaker Tayebwa said he knew nothing about the incident and would check with the clerk about accreditation procedures. He said parliamentary leaders do not participate in granting or removing media access. The Parliamentary Commission released no formal statement explaining why it suspended NTV coverage rights.
