news 30 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Military Blockade of Nation Media Group is Presidential Probe, Says Minister Lumumba
Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Justine Lumumba, has stated that the ongoing military blockade of Nation Media Group Uganda (NMGU) is a 'security-led inquiry' sanctioned by President Yoweri Museveni. The operation began on June 28 and has disrupted NMGU's print and broadcast operations for three days. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lumumba-defends-military-blockade-of-nation-media-group-as-presidential-probe--5513932
Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Justine Lumumba Kasule, has declared that the military encirclement of Nation Media Group Uganda (NMGU) is a direct result of a presidential-ordered “security-led inquiry.” The probe, initiated by President Yoweri Museveni, reportedly involves the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and other security agencies.
Minister Lumumba issued a statement on June 30, explaining that the events leading to the disruption of NMGU’s operations on June 28 were “occasioned by a Security-Led Inquiry.” The government has pledged to update the public once the investigation concludes.
This justification emerges as armed, masked military personnel continue to maintain a tight blockade around NMGU premises for a third consecutive day. The operation commenced in the early hours of Sunday, June 28, with security forces raiding and barricading NMGU’s main headquarters in Namuwongo and its broadcast facilities at the Kampala Serena Hotel.
The extensive military action has effectively silenced major outlets under the NMGU umbrella, including the Daily Monitor newspaper, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM, and Dembe FM, forcing them out of print circulation and off the air.
Confirming the operation’s presidential approval, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba indicated ongoing discussions with veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda, who leads the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), regarding a potential reopening. Despite the physical occupation, NMGU management is reportedly utilizing its online platforms to disseminate news and updates to circumvent the blackout.