The Ugandan government has banned Kenya’s KTN News Network from covering the general elections for the country, which have been widely criticized for integrity. In a move that appears to target freedom of the press hours before Ugandians go to the polls on January 15, 2026, the Uganda Communications Commission banned MultiChoice Africa from broadcasting KTN on Ugandan airwaves, citing national security threats through reporting by KTN. It is also reported that Standard Newspapers, KTN’s publisher, is banned from entering the Ugandan Republic.
This trend can be seen in the broader pattern where the Ugandan government continues to tighten control over communication during election periods. Currently, Uganda is experiencing a total internet shutdown and restriction on data roaming. The government justifies this as an attempt to promote transparency and reduce misinformation.
The president who is seeking a fresh mandate is Yoweri Museveni, who has been at the helm of Uganda’s affairs since 1986. He is facing stiff competition from Bobi Wine, whose full name is Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu. The campaigns are highly guarded with very many security personnel.
The banning of KTN by mediaadvocacy groups is seen as a representation of repressed dissent and a limitation of free news platforms. The limited accessibility and muted websites constitute a denial of democratic ideals and the need for public access to information during election seasons.
Despite all this, KTN is dedicated to supporting East African journalism with a clear intent to continue providing their coverage when possible, in addition to offering updates on the elections.
By Newshub