Nation Media Group (NMG) is reportedly considering removing or reassigning its Uganda Managing Director, Susan Nsibirwa, as the company seeks a breakthrough in ongoing negotiations aimed at restoring its media operations in Uganda.
According to reports published on Saturday, senior executives and shareholders are discussing possible changes to the company's leadership structure, although no final decision has been made.
The reported deliberations follow a turbulent week for the Kenya-based media giant after Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, ordered the shutdown of NMG's media outlets, including Daily Monitor, NTV Uganda, Spark TV, KFM and Dembe FM. Security personnel were deployed to the company's premises, disrupting broadcasting and newspaper production while journalists were prevented from accessing their workplaces.
Sources familiar with the ongoing discussions say concerns about Nsibirwa's leadership featured during meetings between government representatives and NMG shareholders. It is alleged that government officials accused the veteran media executive of taking positions they viewed as politically confrontational, claims that have not been publicly addressed by either Nsibirwa or Nation Media Group.
Reports further indicate that the company is considering a revised management structure and editorial approach as part of wider efforts to resolve the standoff and secure the reopening of its Ugandan operations.
Neither Nation Media Group nor Susan Nsibirwa has officially confirmed the reported leadership changes. The company has previously stated that negotiations with the authorities are continuing in hopes of restoring normal operations.
The reported move comes amid growing international concern over press freedom in Uganda. Human rights organizations and media freedom advocates have condemned the closure of NMG's outlets, while regional and international observers have called for the media house to be allowed to resume operations without interference.
As negotiations continue behind closed doors, the future of one of Uganda's most prominent media executives remains uncertain, with the outcome likely to shape both the company's leadership and the broader media landscape in the country.