NUP Denounces Military Blockade of Nation Media Group as Press Freedom Violation

The National Unity Platform (NUP) has issued a stern condemnation of the recent military operation that has led to the closure and continued siege of several Nation Media Group (NMG) Uganda outlets. The opposition party characterized the unprecedented shutdown of NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM, KFM, and the Daily Monitor as a “primitive attack on press freedom” and an infringement on citizens’ constitutional right to access information.

In a statement released following the operation, which commenced on June 28, 2026, NUP asserted that the closure was executed without any discernible legal basis. The party drew parallels between the current actions and the historical struggles against oppressive regimes, suggesting that the current administration is exhibiting “even worse tyranny” than what it initially aimed to end.

NUP extended its solidarity to the journalists, editors, staff, and leadership of the affected media houses, acknowledging the potential economic repercussions. They urged all citizens, civil society organizations, and political actors to brace for increased repression amid what they termed a deepening constitutional crisis in Uganda.

The party expressed confidence that Uganda’s aspirations for democracy would ultimately triumph, referencing historical precedents where citizens’ pursuit of freedom has outlasted regimes seeking indefinite power. The military’s actions followed public announcements on X by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, indicating the shutdown of NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor.

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has also voiced concern, stating it is actively engaging government authorities to clarify the situation and seek an amicable resolution. The Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) confirmed it has begun consultations with government stakeholders to gather verified information and urged the public to remain calm.