NAB Urges ICT Minister to Intervene in Nation Media Group Shutdown

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has formally requested the Minister of ICT and National Guidance to play a role in resolving the closure of Nation Media Group Uganda (NMG-U) outlets. The association is calling for immediate dialogue to facilitate the reopening of NTV, Spark TV, Dembe FM, KFM, The EastAfrican, and the Daily Monitor.

Security forces occupied NMG-U offices on Sunday morning, resulting in NTV being taken off air and the Daily Monitor ceasing publication. The NAB emphasized that the Ministry of ICT, as the government’s oversight body for the media sector, is crucial in maintaining a stable operating environment for broadcasters.

In a letter dated June 28, 2026, NAB Chairman Innocent Nahabwe expressed deep concern that the “abrupt closure” and statements suggesting operations would only resume with the Chief of Defence Forces’ permission, could harm Uganda’s democratic fabric, investor confidence, and its international image.

The NAB believes that any issues related to media content or professional conduct should be addressed through established legal mechanisms and due process. The association has requested a meeting with the minister to discuss the matter and explore an amicable resolution.

This appeal follows previous engagements, including a letter to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who publicly claimed responsibility for the operation, and a communication to the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC). The NAB has argued to the UCC that the shutdown appears to have bypassed established regulatory procedures.

The association reiterated its commitment to working with relevant authorities to foster a responsible and vibrant media landscape, emphasizing the potential negative impacts on media workers’ livelihoods and Uganda’s global standing. NAB stated its intention to continue engaging with all stakeholders to achieve the resumption of NMG-U’s operations.