NAB Temporarily Lifts Ban on Coverage of Gov’t Activities

The National Association of Broadcasters (NAB) has called off its current ban on coverage of government activities.

Private broadcasters are protesting a directive to have all government advertising carried on Uganda Broadcasting Corporation and New Vision platforms only.

They say the move blocks them from benefitting from government advertising, and have since announced a boycott of coverage of government activities until the directive is reversed.

“We have had several engagements since the ban was effected with several stakeholders and would like to inform you that all parties are open and ready for dialogue to resolve our issues,” said Joseph Beyanga, NAB Secretary General, on Friday.

According to Beyanga, the ban is being temporarily lifted following actions taken by the government to address the concerns of broadcasters.

“In the spirit of dialogue, we have had an engagement with the Editors Guild and one of the proposals is to temporarily immediately suspend the ban pending the outcome of the meeting with HE the president on 10th August 2023,” he stated.

He said one of the measures was a directive to the ICT Committee of Parliament by the Speaker to handle the matter.

NAB members will also meet with the Prime Minister ahead of the meeting with President Museveni next month.

According to Beyanga, lifting the ban temporarily will create a reconciliatory atmosphere during these meetings.