The government’s shutdown of several Nation Media Group outlets is facing growing legal scrutiny, with lawyers and human rights advocates questioning the legality of the move and warning that it could undermine constitutional protections for press freedom and due process.
The concerns follow the disruption of Nation Media Group platforms, including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM, and KFM, which were taken off air on Sunday morning following an overnight security operation.
In a statement issued on June 28, 2026, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC) acknowledged the incident, saying it had initiated consultations with relevant government stakeholders to establish the circumstances surrounding the security operation that interrupted the broadcaster’s television, radio, and newspaper services.
Speaking to Radio Sapientia, the Executive Director of Trinity Legal Aid Foundation, Counsel Bamulabire Moses, said the arbitrary closure of media houses disrupts journalism and deprives the public of access to reliable and accurate information.
He noted that the Uganda Communications Act, 2013, mandates the Uganda Communications Commission to regulate broadcasters and media houses.
According to Counsel Moses, any concerns involving media organizations should be addressed through the Commission’s established legal and regulatory procedures rather than through abrupt shutdowns.
Counsel Moses further warned that bypassing the law risks violating Article 29(1)(a) of the 1995 Constitution, which guarantees freedom of speech, freedom of expression, and the freedom of the press and other media.
He emphasized that adherence to due process is essential for upholding the rule of law and safeguarding democratic freedoms.
He called on the government to respect constitutional and legal procedures when addressing disputes involving media institutions, warning that actions perceived as arbitrary could erode public confidence in democratic governance and the rule of law.
By Francis Jjunju
29th June 2026
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