news 30 June 2026 Nile Post

NAB Urges UCC Intervention in Nation Media Group Shutdown

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has formally requested the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to intervene in the closure of Nation Media Group Uganda (NMG-U) outlets, citing concerns that the shutdown deviates from established regulatory procedures. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/352449/nab-asks-ucc-to-intervene-in-nation-media-group-shutdown-calls-for-multi-agency-talks

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has formally petitioned the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) to step in following the abrupt closure of Nation Media Group Uganda (NMG-U) operations. In a letter dated June 28, 2026, NAB expressed apprehension that the shutdown of outlets including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM, KFM, The EastAfrican, and the Daily Monitor appears to have bypassed the country’s standard regulatory framework.

The association underscored the UCC’s mandate to license and regulate communication services, acknowledging prior enforcement actions for non-compliance. However, NAB Chairman Innocent Nahabwe highlighted that the current closure seemed to have been executed outside the legally stipulated procedures.

NAB has proposed a multi-agency meeting to address the impasse, suggesting the involvement of the Minister of ICT and National Guidance and the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, alongside the UCC. This broader engagement aims to find an amicable resolution through proper channels.

The closure, which followed public statements by Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, resulted in security forces making NMG-U premises inaccessible and disconnecting electricity, halting broadcast and print operations. NAB warned of significant economic repercussions, including the livelihoods of hundreds of media workers, and potential damage to investor confidence and Uganda’s international standing.

Furthermore, NAB has separately reached out to Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba to discuss the security aspects of the closure and explore solutions for NMG-U to resume operations while addressing national security concerns. The association stressed its commitment to fostering a compliant media environment and ensuring disputes are resolved through established legal and regulatory processes.

This incident marks another chapter in NMG-U’s history of confrontations with state actors, recalling past temporary shutdowns and raids. NAB remains dedicated to engaging with all relevant stakeholders to achieve a resolution.