The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has expressed concern over the suspension of Nation Media Group (NMG) Uganda's television, radio, and newspaper operations, saying it is engaging government authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the action and seek an amicable resolution.
In a holding statement issued on June 28, 2026, NAB said it was closely monitoring developments involving its member outlets—NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM, KFM, the Daily Monitor, and The EastAfrican—following the suspension of their operations.
The association also referenced statements posted on the X account associated with the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF), Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, indicating that the affected media outlets would not resume operations without his approval.
"We are deeply concerned about this action and its impact on the media ecosystem, and the rights enshrined under the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda (as amended)," the statement said.
NAB said it had formally reached out to the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and the Chief of Defence Forces to seek clarification on the circumstances surrounding the suspension and pursue an amicable resolution.
"We assure our members and the public that we are following up on all fronts and will issue a more detailed statement once verified facts emerge," the association said.
The suspension followed a security operation at Nation Media Group Uganda's premises in Namuwongo, Kampala, in the early hours of Sunday.
According to information published by the Daily Monitor, security personnel deployed at the media house shortly after midnight, while another team was stationed at Kampala Serena Hotel. Staff were reportedly restricted from entering or leaving the premises as the operation unfolded.
NTV Uganda and Spark TV went off air at around 5:00 a.m., with viewers reporting blank screens displaying the message, "Video unavailable."
Dembe FM and KFM, which broadcast from the Namuwongo premises, also ceased transmission during the operation, while publication of the Daily Monitor newspaper was halted.
The security deployment came after a series of posts on X by Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba announcing that NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor would be shut down.
The development is the latest in a series of interactions between state authorities and one of Uganda's largest independent media organisations.
In May 2013, police conducted operations at the Daily Monitor, Dembe FM, and the Red Pepper offices in Namanve following the publication of a letter that allegedly linked senior government officials to the so-called "Muhoozi Project."
Over the years, President Yoweri Museveni has publicly criticised the Daily Monitor's editorial coverage. The media house has also, at different times, faced restrictions on access to some official events, including limitations on covering presidential activities.
NAB said it would continue engaging the relevant authorities and provide a comprehensive update once more information has been verified.
