The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
Related Articles
The Nation Media Group–Uganda (NMG-U) has condemned the Ugandan government’s decision to block its journalists from covering parliamentary proceedings, calling it a direct assault on press freedom and democratic accountability.
The restriction, which began on October 28, 2025, follows an earlier ban that prevented NMG-U reporters from covering the President, sparking fresh concerns about government hostility toward independent journalism.
Click here to join our WhatsApp Channel
In a statement, Managing Director Susan Nsibirwa expressed dismay at the move, noting that authorities had not issued any formal communication or justification for the ban.
“There has been no official explanation or indication of any wrongdoing by our journalists. We have been denied due process and the right to respond,” Nsibirwa said.
She emphasized that the rights to access information and report freely are guaranteed by Uganda’s 1995 Constitution, which marks its 30th anniversary this month.
“These are not privileges—they are constitutional rights fundamental to the rule of law and the foundations of democracy,” she stated.
Nsibirwa reminded government officials that both the Presidency and Parliament are taxpayer-funded institutions accountable to the public. She warned that barring media access undermines transparency, accountability, and the public’s right to know.
“Blocking journalists from covering Parliament or the Presidency violates the Constitution and erodes citizens’ trust in their leaders,” she said.
Despite being barred from covering the President since March 2025, Nsibirwa said NMG-U had continued to report on national issues with professionalism and fairness. She also decried the rising incidents of intimidation and violence against journalists during the Kawempe North by-election and the ongoing presidential campaigns, terming it a dangerous trend toward shrinking press freedom.
“The Parliament’s decision only worsens what appears to be a growing intolerance toward independent journalism, which we condemn in the strongest terms possible,” she said.
Nsibirwa reaffirmed NMG-U’s commitment to its watchdog role—tracking the use of public funds, defending human rights, and promoting democracy.
“We will continue to do bold, thoughtful journalism and hold those in power accountable,” she vowed.
She concluded by urging both the Presidency and Parliament to uphold journalists’ constitutional right to access public information, reminding them, “We must never forget—democracy dies in darkness.”
