KAMPALA, Uganda (AP) - The offices of a major news organization in Uganda have been shuttered following orders from military chief General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. On Sunday, Kainerugaba warned that all media outlets in the country must “follow the rules,” asserting his authority as the de facto ruler of Uganda.
General Kainerugaba, the eldest son of President Yoweri Museveni, has been serving as Uganda's top military commander since 2024. His consolidation of power comes shortly after President Museveni was sworn in for an unprecedented seventh consecutive term. In recent days, Kainerugaba has issued a series of directives that are usually reserved for the nation’s head of state, boosting his influence significantly.
On Sunday, soldiers were dispatched to the Kampala offices of the Daily Monitor newspaper, part of the Nation Media Group headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. Kainerugaba publicly stated on the social media platform X, “I have the power in Uganda to shut down ANY media house I want to. I have had this power since 2017. This power was given to me by my great father.”
He further declared, “From now on ALL media in Uganda will follow the rules!” This directive not only targeted the Daily Monitor but also local broadcaster NTV, both under the Nation Media Group. The National Association of Broadcasters reacted, expressing deep concern regarding the impact of these closures on the media ecosystem, noting that at least six publishing and broadcasting outlets were affected.
General Kainerugaba has expressed his intentions to succeed his father, increasing speculation about the future leadership of Uganda. Observers note that the 81-year-old Museveni increasingly relies on his son’s military authority as he contemplates retirement. There is growing uncertainty surrounding when Museveni will step down, as he currently faces no significant rivals within the ruling party.
Earlier in the month, Kainerugaba retaliated against Erias Lukwago, a prominent attorney who sought accountability for Kainerugaba’s alleged involvement in the violations of opposition leader Kizza Besigye’s rights. Lukwago was taken from his home and later faced charges related to the concealment of treason, following the controversial seizure of Besigye in Nairobi in 2024. Besigye has since been imprisoned on treason charges that he claims are politically motivated.
Kainerugaba, as described by his associates, is seen as a dedicated military officer who avoids ostentatious displays of wealth and claims to oppose official corruption. He is said to be committed to enforcing penalties for corrupt practices as president. His educational background includes military training in the U.S. and the United Kingdom, which equipped him with the necessary skills to eventually lead an expanded elite group of special forces.
In addition to his military achievements, Kainerugaba is also known for founding the Patriotic League of Uganda, a political activist group with membership that includes key figures in Uganda’s government, ranging from parliamentary speakers to ministers.
