Concerns over the balance between national security and press freedom continue to grow across Africa, with Uganda once again drawing attention as journalists and media organisations report increasing restrictions, intimidation, and attacks on the press.
The debate has intensified amid growing criticism of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s leadership. Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, is one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. While he was initially credited with restoring stability and boosting Uganda’s economy, his presidency has also been marked by disputed elections, constitutional amendments removing presidential term and age limits, and allegations of corruption and political repression.
Researcher at the Democracy Development Programme and PhD candidate in Anthropology at the University of Cape Town, Thelma Nyarhi, said the current political climate has sparked debate about the future of Uganda’s democracy.
“There are two debates around it,” she said. “Many critics have argued that it almost seems like a slow-motion coup is taking place, while others are asking whether Uganda is becoming a monarchy.”
Nyarhi said understanding the country’s current situation requires examining three key issues: Museveni’s leadership style, the role of the media in a democracy, and whether recent political developments resemble a constitutional coup.
She described Museveni as “a maverick leader” whose actions are often unpredictable.
“One of the things we concluded was this idea that he’s a maverick leader, in the sense that things just happen — he’s so unpredictable,” she explained.
According to Nyarhi, Museveni frequently uses his personal communication platforms and social media to shape public narratives.
“At one point he’s closing down the media space, and at another, there are abductions taking place. He constantly uses videos and pictures to show that he is taking action against corruption or violence. There’s always something happening with him,” she said.
She added that a free and independent media remains a vital pillar of democracy, warning that increasing restrictions on journalists undermine public accountability and democratic governance.
The discussion comes as media freedom organisations across Africa continue to call for stronger protections for journalists facing intimidation, censorship, and violence while carrying out their work.
