Uganda opposition leader accuses government of abductions and media closures; regulator says it will investigate

Joel Ssenyonyi, Leader of the Opposition in Uganda's Parliament, accused the government on 30 June 2026 of undermining the rule of law through alleged abductions, prolonged detentions without trial, and the closure of media houses. He made the remarks while addressing newly elected Members of Parliament.

Ssenyonyi said Parliament holds a constitutional duty to ensure enforcement institutions respect the law.

He alleged that security agencies bypassed constitutional arrest procedures by abducting suspects and holding them incommunicado without access to families or lawyers. The opposition leader pointed to the recent arrest of former Ethics and Integrity Minister Miria Matembe, who participated in drafting Uganda's Constitution, as an instance of disregarded due process.

He also criticised the suspension of broadcasting operations by outlets under Nation Media Group.

Ssenyonyi recalled that Speaker Anita Among had assured journalists of unrestricted parliamentary access shortly after taking office. He noted that the Uganda Communications Commission stated it was unaware of the circumstances behind the Nation Media Group closures and promised an investigation.

"It should bother us, regardless of our political differences, whenever we see a disregard for the rule of law," Ssenyonyi said.