Broadcasters Condemn Parliament’s Blockade of NTV, Call it an “Affront to Press Freedom”

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has added its voice to the growing condemnation of Parliament’s decision to block Nation Media Group (NMG-Uganda) journalists from its proceedings, labeling the action a violation of press freedom and a worrying trend ahead of the 2026 elections.

The rebuke follows an incident on Tuesday, where security officers at Parliament denied entry to NTV Uganda journalists, confiscated their accreditation cards, and cited unspecified “instructions not to let them in.” No official reason has been provided for the blockade, and Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa has feigned prior knowledge of the decision.

In a statement issued by its Secretariat, NAB expressed deep concern, drawing a direct link between this event and the recent restriction on the same media house’s coverage of the Presidency.

“NAB is deeply concerned by reports that our member, the Nation Media Group-Uganda, has been blocked from covering the Parliament of Uganda. This action, following a similar blockade on covering the Presidency, is a direct affront to press freedom,” the association stated.

The broadcasters’ body firmly defended journalism as a constitutional right and a cornerstone of a functioning democracy, a role it deemed especially critical during an election period.

“Journalism is not a crime. It is a constitutionally guaranteed right and a vital pillar of democracy, especially during an election season,” NAB asserted.

The association further emphasized the essential role of the media in holding power to account, even when its reporting is perceived as critical by those in authority.

“The media’s role is to inform citizens and hold power to account. This sometimes involves reporting that may be perceived as critical, but in a democratic society, these checks and balances are essential for transparency and good governance,” the statement added.

NAB confirmed that it has actively engaged relevant authorities to seek a swift and constructive resolution to the impasse. The association stressed the necessity of mutual respect between the state and the press.

“We believe it is imperative for the Fourth Estate and the arms of government to coexist, respecting the constitutional mandate of all parties to serve the public interest,” NAB stated.

This development comes just a day after NMG-Uganda itself issued a defiant statement, with Managing Director Susan Nsibirwa condemning the restrictions as a “growing cancer of intolerance.” Despite the bans, the media house vowed to continue its “bold and thoughtful journalism,” insisting that “media freedom is unstoppable” and reminding the public that “democracy dies in darkness.”