Rigathi Gachagua condemns Ugandan media crackdown, links President Ruto to events

These outlets, many belonging to Kenya-based Nation Media Group, were forced off air after security personnel surrounded their premises in Kampala. Gachagua condemned General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces and President Museveni's son, for ordering the shutdown, calling it an assault on press freedom. Gachagua further alleged that Kenya's President William Ruto is responsible due to his close relationship with the Ugandan military chief, stating, "He Museveni is a close confidant of William Ruto, and by association, Ruto is part and parcel of this shutdown."

He did not provide evidence for this claim. Gachagua also warned of a growing threat to press freedom across East Africa, urging journalists and media organizations to remain steadfast. The shutdown has drawn widespread condemnation from international press freedom organizations.