The Uganda Parliamentary Press Association (UPPA) has officially intervened in the growing standoff between Parliament and the Nation Media Group (NMG), seeking dialogue after journalists from NTV Uganda and the Daily Monitor were denied access to the parliamentary premises.
The move comes amid rising tension within the media fraternity following the initial reports of the blockade. In a statement dated October 28, 2025, UPPA President Samuel Ibanda Mugabi confirmed the association’s engagement with the legislature’s top leadership to resolve the matter.
“I have been made aware of a concerning development affecting some of our colleagues from Nation Media, specifically NTV and Daily Monitor. It has come to my attention that they have been blocked from accessing Parliament,” Mugabi stated.
Detailing his immediate response, Mugabi explained that he was attending a three-day training for UPPA members organized by the French Embassy when he was contacted by the affected journalists. He promptly initiated steps to open a channel of communication with the parliamentary administration.
“In my capacity as UPPA President, I have since written to the leadership of Parliament to request an opportunity to engage with them on this matter,” he added, underscoring the association’s commitment to a diplomatic resolution.
Emphasizing a belief in constructive dialogue, the UPPA President expressed optimism that the issue could be settled quickly and without further escalation.
“We believe that open communication is key to resolving any standoff, and we are hopeful that we can resolve this issue amicably and in the shortest possible time,” Mugabi stated.
The UPPA has pledged to keep its members informed of any developments as discussions with Parliament proceed. The reason for the denial of access to the Nation Media Group journalists remains officially unexplained, casting a shadow over media freedom within the nation’s foremost legislative institution. The outcome of this proposed engagement is now highly anticipated by journalists and civil society advocates across the country.
