The appeal comes after military personnel reportedly raided media outlets owned by Nation Media Group in the early hours of Sunday, June 28, forcing television and radio stations off air and halting the publication of newspapers, including the Daily Monitor.
The incident has also been accompanied by reports of increased online attacks and intimidation targeting journalists and media executives.
In a formal communication addressed to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, WAN-IFRA and the World Editors Forum called for the immediate restoration of normal media operations and reminded the Ugandan government of its constitutional and international obligations to uphold freedom of the press and ensure the safety of journalists.
WAN-IFRA Chief Executive Officer Stig Ørskov strongly condemned the reported military action, describing it as a serious violation of both Uganda’s Constitution and internationally recognised standards on freedom of expression.
“We strongly condemn the military-enforced closure of Nation Media Group outlets and the intimidation of independent journalists. Such actions undermine media freedom, restrict citizens’ access to information, and have no place in a democratic society,” Ørskov said.
According to WAN-IFRA, soldiers reportedly entered the headquarters of Nation Media Group where employees and journalists were temporarily prevented from leaving the premises while broadcasting operations were suspended.
The organisation further noted that print operations were also affected during the incident, with newspapers unable to proceed as scheduled.
WAN-IFRA also expressed concern over public statements allegedly issued by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, which suggested that media organisations should operate only with military approval and questioned the value of press freedom.
“Statements that appear to discourage independent journalism or place media operations under military control are deeply troubling and risk eroding public confidence in democratic institutions,” Ørskov stated.
The international media body appealed directly to President Museveni to intervene by ensuring the immediate reopening of affected media houses, withdrawal of military personnel from media premises, and a public reaffirmation of government commitment to press freedom.
“We encourage the Ugandan government to reaffirm its commitment to constitutional freedoms and its obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, particularly those relating to freedom of expression, media independence, and access to information,” Ørskov added.
WAN-IFRA further called on the President to distance the government from any remarks that could be interpreted as hostile toward independent journalism and to provide guarantees for the protection and safety of journalists carrying out their professional duties.
The organisation said it will continue monitoring developments in Uganda and remain engaged with international media partners, regional stakeholders, and development partners as the situation unfolds.
WAN-IFRA emphasised that a free and independent press remains essential to transparency, accountability and democratic governance, urging authorities to ensure journalists are able to perform their work without intimidation or interference.