By Spy Uganda
The Independent Online Journalists Association of Uganda (INDOJA-U) has strongly condemned the sudden shutdown of several major media outlets under the Nation Media Group (NMG), describing the move as a direct blow to press freedom and democratic governance.
The closure, which occurred over the weekend, has targeted some of the country’s most prominent independent media platforms, including NTV Uganda, Spark TV, Dembe FM 90.4, KFM 93.3, and the Daily Monitor newspaper.
In an official statement released on Sunday afternoon, INDOJA-U President Andrew Irumba Katusabe expressed “deep concern” over the forced suspension of NMG operations, joining the broader media fraternity to denounce any actions that undermine the independence of journalists both locally and globally.
The association emphasized that a free press acts as an indispensable “bridge” between the governing authorities and the public. Through meticulous reporting, investigative journalism, and unbiased analysis, the media ensures that citizens understand public institutional functions, resource allocation, and policy decisions.
“When that bridge is weakened or collapses, the public becomes disconnected from the workings of government and loses an important channel through which accountability and transparency are maintained,” said Irumba in a statement. “This is not only detrimental to journalists and media houses, but also to the broader national interests.”
NMG platforms like NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor have long been viewed as critical pillars for civic awareness and national discourse in Uganda. While acknowledging that the media is subject to critique, much like the public holds varied opinions on the conduct of the military, INDOJA-U maintained that grievances should be managed through lawful, transparent, and constructive engagement rather than total blackouts.
Rather than leaning into confrontation, media stakeholders are urging state actors to respect constitutional protections regarding freedom of expression.
INDOJA-U has specifically appealed to key regulatory and security bodies to step in and resolve the impasse, calling upon the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), and the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). The association wants these institutions to urgently facilitate a meaningful dialogue that will pave the way for the immediate reopening of NMG and the restoration of its normal operations.
Beyond the political and democratic implications, the media body highlighted the immediate economic toll on ordinary citizens. The abrupt closure has directly disrupted the livelihoods of hundreds of technical staff, producers, journalists, and support workers who rely on NMG for employment.
As security forces maintain their stance, families and dependents of these media employees are now facing sudden financial uncertainty and hardship.
The statement concluded with a plea for institutional restraint: “Uganda’s future will be strengthened not by silencing voices, but by encouraging responsible dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to national progress.
“
