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US Senator James Risch has called for a review of Washington’s security relationship with Uganda following the shutdown of three major media outlets. He argued that attacks on press freedom undermine Uganda’s credibility as a security partner.
In a statement issued on Monday, June 29, Risch, who chairs the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, criticised General Muhoozi Kainerugaba over the closures. He said the United States should only maintain security partnerships with countries that uphold democratic values and regional stability.
Risch Criticises Media Shutdown
The Idaho senator said General Muhoozi’s actions against independent media raise serious concerns. He argued that the conduct makes both Muhoozi and the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) unsuitable security partners.
“The U.S. needs to review its security relationship with Uganda. Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s attacks on free speech, including shuttering major media houses this weekend, make him and the UPDF unfit partners,” Risch said.
“We should only work with those who advance regional security, not diminish it,” he added.
Muhoozi Orders Closure of Media Houses
On Sunday, June 28, General Muhoozi announced the closure of NTV Uganda, Daily Monitor and Spark TV. The three outlets suspended operations after Ugandan military personnel moved into their premises.
Soldiers reportedly surrounded the offices of the affected media houses in Kampala. They also prevented journalists and other staff from entering or leaving the buildings.
In a post on his X account, Muhoozi said President Yoweri Museveni had approved the decision.
“Mzee has approved my plan to close both NTV and Monitor. We are moving immediately,” Muhoozi wrote.
The affected outlets include NTV Uganda and Daily Monitor, which are owned by Nation Media Group (NMG). Spark TV also went off air following the operation.
Communications Regulator Responds
The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) acknowledged the disruption on Monday, June 29. The regulator said it had begun consultations with relevant government agencies to establish the facts surrounding the shutdown.
UCC urged the public to remain calm as the consultations continue. It said the discussions will help determine the appropriate course of action.
“Consultations have begun with the relevant government stakeholders to obtain verified information. The Commission urges the public to remain calm and allow these consultations to proceed,” the commission said.
The shutdown has attracted regional and international attention, with media freedom advocates closely monitoring developments. Risch’s remarks add pressure on Uganda as questions continue to emerge over the government’s treatment of independent media.
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