MPs Decry ‘Press Censorship’ as NTV is Blocked from Parliament

Ugandan legislators on Tuesday condemned what they described as growing intolerance toward the press after NTV Uganda journalists were blocked from accessing Parliament and had their accreditation withdrawn. The move is reportedly linked to the station’s critical coverage of the increasing number of “unopposed” electoral returns within the House, including the re-election of Speaker Anita Among and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa without challengers.

The development has ignited debate over press freedom, transparency, and political control in Uganda’s Parliament as the country approaches the 2026 general elections.

Butambala County MP Muwanga Kivumbi raised the issue on the floor, stating he had sought clarification from Parliament’s leadership after NTV—a long-standing accredited media house—was barred from entering the premises.

“The cancellation depicts intolerance and press censorship which we must address as an institution that advocates for good governance, accountable leadership, and democracy,” Kivumbi asserted.

He emphasized that discomfort over critical reporting should not justify restricting media access, particularly in a democratic institution.

“The most credible media house was stopped this morning, and their accreditation literally canceled,” Kivumbi said. “As we go towards the elections, tolerance and freedom of expression are critical. Hearing alternative views, no matter how uncomfortable, is part of democracy. This is the people’s house — the media must have access.”

Leader of the Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi confirmed that NTV crew members were denied entry and their press tags confiscated by security personnel acting on unspecified “instructions.” He directly linked the action to NTV’s recent reporting on the trend of unopposed candidates, which has drawn public scrutiny for stifling political competition and accountability.

“Information reaching us indicates that the leadership of Parliament is angry because of NTV’s stories about ‘unopposed candidates,’ including the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. What a shame!” Ssenyonyi stated.

In response, Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa claimed no prior knowledge of the incident and pledged to investigate the matter with the Clerk to Parliament.

“Thank you, Hon. Kivumbi. I will cross-check with the Clerk, but all I know is that we have a process of accreditation,” Tayebwa said. He distanced the top leadership from the decision, noting, “The Speaker and Deputy Speaker don’t participate in that process.”

The suspension of NTV’s access has raised alarm among journalists and civil society observers, who view it as part of a broader pattern of suppressing critical media coverage, particularly reporting that scrutinizes parliamentary leadership and internal democratic processes.

NTV Uganda, part of the Nation Media Group, has built a reputation for in-depth coverage of parliamentary proceedings, including investigative reports on transparency and governance.

Kivumbi warned that allowing such restrictions to stand would set a dangerous precedent. “No matter the circumstances, the media should access this House,” he insisted. “We cannot afford to silence journalists in the people’s Parliament.”

As of press time, the Parliamentary Commission had not issued an official statement regarding the withdrawal of NTV’s accreditation.