Veteran politician and human rights activist Miria Matembe has once again openly criticised Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, delivering a series of strong remarks during a live appearance on NBS Television’s Morning Breeze programme on Tuesday. Her comments sparked a tense discussion as she questioned the growing involvement of the military in Uganda’s political affairs.
Matembe, who previously claimed to have experienced detention in a basement, appeared determined not to moderate her criticism despite expressing fears about possible consequences. She declared that the Uganda she understood under the 1995 Constitution was no longer the same, arguing that the country’s constitutional principles were increasingly being undermined.
During the interview, Matembe directly challenged Gen Muhoozi, insisting that she was not afraid of whatever might happen to her, including death. She even suggested that Tuesday’s appearance could be her last time on the programme, saying she had a feeling that people associated with the army commander might come after her again.
She questioned why the military commander would allegedly be concerned about her, yet her criticism was being delivered through words. Matembe also urged Ugandans to overcome their fear and speak out against what she described as the increasing militarisation of government affairs.
The outspoken activist further questioned the legal authority and constitutional standing of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), arguing that she would not allow the fear of arrest, intimidation or possible death to silence her. Her remarks placed the programme’s host, Njala, in a difficult position as the discussion became increasingly heated.
Matembe also turned her criticism towards Gen Salim Saleh, questioning what she described as his influence in government affairs. She accused him of using his family relationship with President Yoweri Museveni to exercise authority that, in her view, should be guided by the country’s Constitution and established institutions.
She expressed disappointment in President Museveni, whom she referred to as her brother, particularly over the continued detention of opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye. Matembe questioned Saleh’s reported efforts to assist Besigye, arguing that the government led by his brother had created circumstances in which judicial independence was being compromised.
According to Matembe, it was contradictory for Saleh to present himself as concerned about Besigye’s situation while the same government was allegedly influencing circumstances surrounding his bail applications and access to medical treatment abroad. She maintained that Ugandans should demand accountability, respect for constitutional institutions and protection of individual freedoms regardless of their political differences.
