news 30 June 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Military Blockade of Nation Media Group termed 'Presidential Probe' by Gov't
Minister of 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 Museveni. The operation, involving UPDF and CID, has been in place for three days. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/lumumba-defends-military-blockade-of-nation-media-group-as-presidential-probe--5513932
The recent military lockdown on Nation Media Group Uganda (NMGU) premises has been officially labeled as a “security-led inquiry” directed by President Yoweri Museveni. Minister of ICT and National Guidance, Justine Lumumba Kasule, announced the probe on Tuesday, indicating it involves a collaboration between the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF), the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and other security agencies.
According to Lumumba’s statement on June 30, the “events of 28th June 2026” necessitated the disruption of NMGU’s operations. The government has pledged to update the public upon the inquiry’s completion, without providing further details on the nature of the investigation or the specific reasons for the blockade.
The operation, which began early Sunday morning, has seen armed and masked military personnel surround NMGU’s headquarters and broadcasting facilities. This has effectively halted the print publications and broadcast transmissions of major outlets including Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM, and Dembe FM, impacting Uganda’s independent media landscape significantly.
Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, confirmed that the shutdown was executed with presidential approval. He also revealed ongoing discussions with journalist Andrew Mwenda, leader of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), regarding the potential reopening of the media house.
Despite the physical blockade and restricted access for staff, NMGU management has affirmed their commitment to continuing operations. The media house is actively utilizing its online platforms to distribute news, updates, and digital broadcasts, ensuring information dissemination to the public.