The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has condemned what it describes as an “unconstitutional and deliberate attempt to muzzle media freedom” following reports that the Parliament of Uganda administration has barred Nation Media Group (NMG) journalists, who operate NTV Uganda, from covering parliamentary proceedings indefinitely.
In a strongly worded statement issued on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, UJA said the move violates the journalists’ constitutional rights to freedom of the press and access to information, as provided for under Articles 29(1)(a) and 41 of the Constitution.
“This act is a blatant violation of the constitutional right to freedom of the press and access to information. Parliament, as the people’s House, is a public institution funded by taxpayers and must remain open to scrutiny and coverage by all accredited media platforms without discrimination or intimidation,” said Emmanuel Kirunda, the UJA Secretary General.
Kirunda said the association views the decision as a “deliberate attempt to silence independent journalism, stifle transparency, and shield the conduct of public officials from accountability.”
He added that such actions “undermine democracy and good governance, values that Parliament is duty-bound to uphold.”
UJA also cited a growing pattern of hostility towards journalists by senior public officials, referring to a recent incident involving Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja and Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine, who allegedly attacked Galaxy Radio-TV journalist David Mwesigwa for reporting to the President about poor service delivery in Mukono, Kayunga, and Namuganga government health facilities.
“Incidentally, the Rt. Hon. Nabbanja responded by ordering Mwesigwa’s immediate arrest, which is another worrying indicator of shrinking media freedom,” Kirunda noted.
The journalists’ body demanded that Parliament immediately and unconditionally lift the ban on NMG journalists, and that the Office of the Speaker issues a formal clarification to dispel speculation that it could be involved in the decision.
“Such clarification will give assurance to the media fraternity regarding safety concerns and restore public confidence in Parliament,” UJA said.
The association further urged Parliament to adopt transparent and non-discriminatory media access policies that uphold journalistic independence.
Kirunda warned that if their demands are not addressed, UJA will announce its next course of action.
“Freedom of the press is not negotiable. We shall not stand by as public officials attempt to erode the hard-won freedoms of the Ugandan media,” he asserted.
UJA reaffirmed its commitment to defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and holding duty bearers accountable.
