By Karim Were
KAMPALA — Uganda’s military leadership has taken another bold step in consolidating its influence after Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba ordered the closure of several media outlets owned by Nation Media Group, signaling an escalating military role in the country’s governance.
Armed soldiers were deployed outside the Kampala offices of the Daily Monitor early Sunday, effectively halting operations at one of Uganda’s most influential independent newspapers. The directive also affected NTV Uganda and other Nation Media Group outlets.
Gen. Kainerugaba announced the action through his X account, declaring that he possesses the authority to shut down any media organization in Uganda.
“I have the power in Uganda to shut down ANY media house I want to,” he wrote, adding that the authority had been granted to him by his father, President Yoweri Museveni. He also warned that “all media in Uganda will follow the rules.”
The National Association of Broadcasters condemned the move, saying at least six publishing and broadcasting outlets under Nation Media Group had been forced to cease operations. The association expressed concern over the implications for press freedom and Uganda’s media environment.
The latest directive comes amid growing indications that Gen. Kainerugaba is assuming an increasingly prominent political role. Since becoming Uganda’s military chief in 2024, he has issued a series of public directives that critics say resemble executive orders traditionally made by the presidency.
Political observers have closely watched Kainerugaba’s rising influence, particularly as he openly states his intention to eventually succeed President Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986.
Earlier this month, Kainerugaba was linked to the arrest of prominent lawyer Erias Lukwago, who represents opposition leader Dr. Kizza Besigye. Lukwago was later charged with an offence related to the alleged concealment of treason, while Besigye remains in detention on treason charges that he maintains are politically motivated.
Despite widespread speculation over Uganda’s future leadership, President Museveni has not announced retirement plans. With no clear challenger emerging within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), analysts believe the military is likely to play a significant role in shaping the country’s political transition.
Supporters of Gen. Kainerugaba portray him as a disciplined military officer committed to fighting corruption and strengthening state institutions. Trained in military academies in the United States and the United Kingdom, he previously commanded the Special Forces Command and later founded the Patriotic League of Uganda, a political movement that has attracted support from senior government officials and ruling party leaders.
