The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has expressed concern over the shutdown of Nation Media Group (NMG) Uganda outlets, saying it is engaging relevant authorities to establish the circumstances surrounding the development and seek an amicable resolution.
In a statement issued following the shutdown, NAB said it was closely monitoring the suspension of operations at NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM, KFM, the Daily Monitor, and The EastAfrican.
The broadcasters’ umbrella body also noted statements posted on the X (formerly Twitter) 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 authorization.
“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),” NAB said.
The association said it had formally contacted 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 shutdown and work towards a 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 statement added.
The shutdown affected NMG Uganda outlets, including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, and the Daily Monitor, after Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba announced on X that President Yoweri Museveni had approved his plan to close the media houses.
“Mzee has approved my plan to close both NTV and Monitor. We are moving immediately. NTV and Monitor are being shut down from today,” Gen. Muhoozi wrote.
Shortly afterwards, NTV Uganda confirmed through its official X account that security personnel had deployed around its premises.
The affected television and radio stations were taken off air, while publication of the Daily Monitor newspaper was also halted.
Gen. Muhoozi later stated that the outlets would remain closed until he personally authorized their reopening.
NAB said it would continue engaging the relevant authorities and provide further updates after establishing verified information regarding the shutdown.
NTV forced off air, Daily Monitor shut down on CDF Gen Muhoozi’s orders
