The Government has attributed the sudden disruption of operations at Nation Media Group in Kampala on June 28, 2026, to what it describes as a “security-led inquiry” ordered by President Yoweri Museveni.
The official position was communicated by ICT Minister Justine Lumumba Kasule, who stated that the inquiry involves the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, the Criminal Investigations Directorate, and other security agencies, supported by technical experts. She added that the public will be updated once the process is concluded.
On Sunday morning , armed military personnel reportedly stormed NMG Uganda premises in Kampala in the early hours of June 28, cutting power and abruptly halting operations across major outlets, including NTV Uganda, Daily Monitor, Spark TV, KFM Radio, and Dembe FM.
Reports further indicate that staff were prevented from accessing the premises during the operation, effectively bringing editorial and broadcast activities to a standstill.
Press Freedom Concerns Mount
While the Government maintains the action is part of an official inquiry, regional media organizations have raised concerns over its implications for press freedom and independent journalism, warning of potential chilling effects on media operations.
Military Leadership Linked to Closure Order
Separately, Chief of Defence Forces Muhoozi Kainerugaba was reported to have initiated the operation and publicly stated that the affected outlets would remain closed until further notice.
