media 5 May 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Climbs 12 Spots in Global Press Freedom Index Amid Ongoing Challenges
Uganda has improved to 131st out of 180 in the 2026 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders, shifting from 'very serious' to 'difficult' status. However, the report highlights persistent criminalisation of journalism, intimidation by security forces, and President Museveni's hostility toward critical media. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-improves-in-press-freedom-ranking-5447850
Uganda has advanced 12 positions in the latest World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) on April 30, 2026. The country now sits at 131 out of 180 nations, up from 143rd the previous year, with its press freedom situation reclassified from ‘very serious’ to ‘difficult’.
Despite the progress, RSF emphasizes that criminalisation of journalism looms large in Uganda and the Great Lakes region. Journalists endure regular intimidation and violence, especially from security services during elections. Those seeking government accountability often face job losses without due process or self-censorship to avoid reprisals.
The report criticizes President Museveni for intolerance toward criticism, including threats against the Daily Monitor and monitoring of its activities. His son has also issued threats to critical reporters. Government control over the media regulator exacerbates the issues, alongside violence, abductions, arrests, and equipment seizures targeting outspoken journalists.
Specific incidents include assaults on around 20 journalists during 2025 Kawempe by-elections by army and JATT forces, plus further attacks during the 2026 presidential race. A 2017 social media monitoring unit has intensified pursuits.
RSF labels Museveni a ‘press freedom predator’ alongside regional leaders like Rwanda’s Kagame and Kenya’s Ruto, citing hostility toward private media and social platforms. Past actions include calling Daily Monitor staff ‘evil’ in 2018 over debt coverage, internet shutdowns, and financial pressures.
In East Africa, Kenya leads at 106th, followed by Tanzania (117th), while Rwanda trails at 139th. Sub-Saharan Africa faces strained press freedom due to wars, criminalisation, and economic woes.
Presidential press secretary Sandor Walusimbi rejected the predator label, arguing journalists operate freely under Museveni’s peace-focused leadership, with occasional errors not indicative of restrictions.
RSF notes further concerns like arbitrary media suspensions, such as the 2019 UCC ban on 39 journalists for Bobi Wine coverage and 2026 pre-election internet cuts.