The Uganda Journalists Association (UJA) has expressed deep concern over the closure of Nation Media Group (NMG) platforms in Uganda, describing the move as a serious setback for press freedom and a threat to the livelihoods of hundreds of media workers.
In a statement issued by its Executive Committee, UJA said the shutdown affected several NMG outlets, including Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM, Dembe FM, The EastAfrican, and Ennyanda, among other sister platforms.
According to the association, information shared on social media platform X by Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba indicated that the closure was carried out on his orders.
“The shutdown raises serious unemployment concerns for several journalists and media practitioners, some of whom are members of the Uganda Journalists Association, considering that Nation Media Group is their employer,” the statement said.
UJA argued that the closure undermines the constitutional guarantees of press freedom and access to information under Articles 29(1)(a) and 41 of Uganda’s Constitution. The association further said the action contradicts the democratic principles and governance commitments outlined in the National Resistance Movement’s historic 10-point programme and subsequent development frameworks.
As part of efforts to resolve the matter, UJA announced that it has initiated a process of engaging key government leaders and institutions. These include the Speaker of Parliament, Deputy Speaker, the Minister of ICT and National Guidance, the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, the Executive Director of the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
The association said the engagements are intended to explore constructive and workable solutions to the dispute.
In addition, UJA revealed that it is in advanced stages of coordinating a joint engagement with media advocacy organizations to collectively address the situation and safeguard media freedoms in the country.
“The Uganda Journalists Association reaffirms its unwavering commitment to defending press freedom, promoting ethical journalism, and holding duty bearers accountable,” the statement concluded.
The reported closure of the Nation Media Group platforms has sparked concern among journalists, civil society organizations, and media freedom advocates, with many closely monitoring developments and awaiting the outcome of planned engagements between stakeholders and the government.
