Government Says NMG Uganda Blockade Is Part of Security-Led Investigation

Title: Government Says NMG Uganda Blockade Is Part of Security-Led Investigation

The ongoing military blockade of Nation Media Group Uganda (NMGU) is part of a security-led investigation ordered by President Yoweri Museveni, according to ICT and National Guidance Minister Justine Lumumba Kasule.

In a statement issued on June 30, Minister Lumumba said the multi-agency inquiry involves the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and other security agencies.

“The events of 28th June 2026 that led to the disruption of operations at Nation Media Group were occasioned by a security-led inquiry… Government will inform the public once the inquiry has been concluded,” the statement reads.

The explanation comes as armed, masked soldiers continue to maintain a tight blockade around NMGU premises for a third straight day, leaving the country’s largest independent media house unable to operate normally.

The operation began at around 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, June 28, when security forces raided and sealed off NMGU’s headquarters in Namuwongo, along with its broadcasting facilities at the Kampala Serena Hotel.

As a result, the Daily Monitor newspaper, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM, and Dembe FM remain off the air and out of print.

Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has confirmed that the operation was carried out with President Museveni’s approval. He also said he is in discussions with veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda, leader of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), over the possible reopening of the media house.

Despite the continued military presence and staff being denied access to its premises, NMGU says it is adapting by delivering news and updates through its digital platforms while broadcast and print operations remain suspended.