Various Christian sects and the country's Muslim minority practice their creeds freely. There is broad public debate as freedom of expression and the media is generally respected. The independent print media, which include more than two dozen daily and weekly newspapers, are often highly critical of the government and offer a full range of opposition views. Several private radio stations and two private television stations report openly on local political developments. The largest newspapers and broadcasting facilities that reach rural areas remain state-owned.
Governmental corruption is reported.
Opposition positions are also presented, but the coverage is often not balanced. Some direct restrictions on the media are in force. Provisions of 1995 and 1996 press laws have effectively barred some journalists from working by imposing educational and training requirements. The Uganda Journalists Safety Committee has sued the government for alleged use of sedition laws to arrest or intimidate journalists. Uncensored but expensive Internet access is available in the larger centers, and at least daily two newspapers are available on the World Wide Web.