Veteran journalist shot dead in Uganda

Joe Nam, 55, worked for state media for three decades before retiring and had written a book discussing the potential fallout when long-ruling President Yoweri Museveni leaves office.

"He was shot dead by a masked man according to preliminary investigations at around 1am, near his residence in Kawanda, Wakiso district," police deputy spokesperson Luke Owoyesigyire told AFP.

"The assailant, after shooting and killing him, fled the scene," he said.

An investigation "to establish the circumstances" around the death was ongoing, Owoyesigyire said.

Nam's book, "The Day Museveni Goes: Reflections, Questions, Fear and Hope", gave insight into Museveni's inner circle as members of it jostle to replace him.

The Ugandan leader, 81, has held power for decades. He was re-elected earlier this year in polls that were denounced by the opposition and criticised by international observers.

Nam covered politics, business and the environment during his career and was critical towards the establishment's human rights and governance record.