Senior Associate for Africa and Special Advisor to the President of the National Democratic Institute (NDI), Dr. Christopher Fomunyoh, has strongly criticized the Government of Uganda following the reported raid and shutdown of three media houses, describing the action as a dangerous assault on press freedom and democratic governance.
In a strongly worded statement, Dr. Fomunyoh expressed concern over what he termed the shrinking civic and political space in Uganda, saying such actions betray the ideals that inspired Africa’s struggle for independence.
“So sad. Certainly not why founding fathers in Uganda and other parts of Africa fought for independence. Independence was about freedom and the right to self-govern; about democracy at its best. The backsliding and shrinkage of civic and political space is appalling and unacceptable,” he said.
His remarks followed reports that three Ugandan media houses were raided and shut down after an order issued by Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of President Yoweri Museveni.
The order to shut down several media outlets including NTV Uganda, Spark TV and the Daily Monitor operated by the Nation Media Group was conducted by the military.
Although Ugandan authorities are yet to provide a comprehensive explanation for the operation, the move has sparked widespread concern among media rights advocates, civil society organizations and democracy campaigners, who warn that it could further erode press freedom in the country.
Dr. Fomunyoh said an independent media is a cornerstone of any democratic society, arguing that journalists must be allowed to operate freely without fear of intimidation, harassment or state interference.
He noted that the struggle for independence across Africa was driven by the quest for liberty, accountable governance and the right of citizens to participate freely in public affairs, adding that governments have a responsibility to protect and not suppress those freedoms.
“The backsliding we are witnessing is deeply troubling and runs contrary to the democratic aspirations of African citizens,” he said.
His comments come amid growing scrutiny of Uganda’s human rights record, particularly regarding freedom of expression, political participation and the operating environment for independent media.
Media stakeholders have repeatedly called on governments across the continent to uphold constitutional guarantees protecting freedom of the press, emphasizing that a free and independent media is essential for transparency, accountability and informed public participation.
Political observers say the latest developments are likely to intensify debate over the state of democracy and civil liberties in Uganda as the country continues to face criticism from regional and international governance and human rights organizations.
Dr. Fomunyoh urged African leaders to remain faithful to the democratic ideals championed by the continent’s founding fathers, stressing that genuine independence must be reflected in respect for fundamental freedoms, democratic institutions and the rule of law.
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