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Media regulators across East Africa have issued a strong warning over escalating tensions between governments and the press, calling for an immediate de-escalation to safeguard press freedom and democratic accountability.
The East African Press Councils (EAPC) said growing hostility, including intimidation, shutdowns and public confrontations, is creating a chilling effect on journalism across the region. The councils cautioned that such actions risk fuelling fear among journalists and encouraging self-censorship.
The statement follows a series of high-profile incidents, notably the forced shutdown of NTV Uganda, Spark TV and KFM FM, after security forces raided Nation Media Group premises in Kampala. The closures came after public directives from Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, targeting the media outlets.
In Kenya, the councils also pointed to an ongoing public dispute between President William Ruto and the Standard Group, warning that political disagreements must not spill into attacks on the media.
According to the EAPC, “heightened public intimidation and profiling of journalists by those wielding State power” undermines constitutional guarantees and violates regional and international obligations on freedom of expression and access to information.
The councils stressed that continued assaults on journalists, intimidation of media practitioners, and forced closures of media houses erode hard-won gains in building a free, responsible and accountable press in East Africa.
While condemning state actions, the EAPC also urged media organisations to exercise professionalism and restraint, particularly in responding to political pressure, emphasizing that responsible journalism remains central to maintaining public trust.
The regional body reiterated that the media is not an adversary of the state but a critical pillar of governance, transparency and public participation. It called for dialogue and mutual respect between governments and the press to resolve disputes without undermining democratic institutions.
Formed in 2023, the EAPC brings together national media councils to promote independent, ethical and accountable journalism across East Africa, and to advocate for press freedom and regulatory cooperation in the region.
As tensions persist, the councils’ message is clear: without a free and protected press, citizens are denied access to information, and democratic oversight is weakened.
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