East African Press Council Speaks Out After Uganda Media Shutdown

EAPC Demands Dialogue to End Media-Government Clashes in East Africa

The East African Press Councils (EAPC) stated on Sunday, June 28, 2026, and called for the de-escalation of hostility between the media and governments in the EAC region.

EAPC said the increased public intimidation and profiling of journalists and media by the powerful state perpetuates fear among those in the profession and motivates self-censorship of the media.

“Regional body opposes violations of constitutional, regional, and global human rights obligations,” EAPC stated.

Among the violations listed by EAPC are denial of access to information and endangering the lives of journalists.

EAPC calls all concerned to practice self-restraint and seek solutions to remaining issues through dialogue.

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EAPC Council Warns of Backsliding Due to Journalist Attacks and Media Business Closures

The council pointed out that violations against press freedom, including the attack and detention of journalists, intimidation of media workers, and closure of media businesses, push the country closer to a backslide and responsible free media, which is impossible in the country under the rule of law.

The council also confirmed that the media is a big economic investment in the country where journalists belong to a professional ethics and legal framework.

EAPC stated that even though public officials may find any kind of reporting disturbing or disturbing, the journalists have the duty of informing the public on issues of public interest.

Public officials are to recognize the role and should opt for the complaint mechanism rather than provocative activity to put journalists’ lives in danger.

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Uganda Shuts Down Nation Media Group Outlets Amidst Government Crackdowns

In Uganda, the Nation Media Group made the decision to close down several media station outlets, including The Monitor, NTV-Uganda, Spark TV, and KFM FM, after the government ordered their closure in a move apparently designed to create a perception that the media is the enemy of the government.

EAPC reported that the shutdown order is in the public domain, and the occupied premises are, as such, under military authority.

Several broadcasters, including the National Broadcasters (NAB), have approached Government institutions for insight and consensus settlement.

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