Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has sharply condemned the decision by Parliament and the Presidency to block journalists from the Nation Media Group (NMG) from covering their proceedings, describing the move as an unconstitutional act of censorship and a direct attack on press freedom.
In a statement issued on Thursday, October 30, 2025, ULS Vice President Anthony Asiimwe said the action by the two top government institutions “is a grave assault on freedom of the press and a violation of the constitutional guarantees that protect transparency and democracy.”
“Freedom of the press is not a privilege; it is a constitutional right,” Asiimwe stated. “Article 29(1)(a) of the 1995 Constitution guarantees every person the right to freedom of speech and expression — including freedom of the press and other media.”
Press Freedom as a Constitutional Guarantee
The ULS reminded government officials that Article 41 of the Constitution also provides for the right of access to information held by the State or its organs, except in limited cases relating to national security or privacy.
“Blocking journalists from covering Parliament and the Presidency undermines accountability and erodes public trust,” the statement added. “Such actions amount to abuse of constitutional power and a breach of the rule of law.”
The Law Society emphasized that the media serves as a crucial bridge between the government and citizens, enabling public participation, scrutiny, and informed debate, and that it is ready to offer legal support to journalists and media houses affected by the restriction, warning that it may take legal action if the blockade persists.
“We stand in solidarity with the Nation Media Group and the wider media fraternity,” the statement said.
“If the blockade continues, the Uganda Law Society is prepared to challenge this violation of press freedom in court to safeguard the constitutional order.”
Mr Asiimwe urged both Parliament and the Presidency to immediately lift the restrictions and reaffirm their commitment to transparency.
“Freedom of the press is the lifeblood of democracy. Silencing the media is silencing the citizens,” he warned, adding that, “The Uganda Law Society remains committed to protecting constitutionalism, democracy, and human rights.”
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