President Yoweri Museveni has hit back at journalist Andrew Mwenda, accusing him of creating what he described as unnecessary controversy around national security issues and warning Ugandans to be cautious about his actions.
Museveni made the remarks while responding to discussions surrounding Stephen Nuwagaba, a young man who the President said came to him after allegedly suffering torture, injuries and threats from some elements within security agencies.
In a strongly worded statement, Museveni said Mwenda had shifted his attention to Nuwagaba after what he described as previous attempts to undermine other government initiatives.
The President accused the journalist of turning national matters into personal campaigns, saying his latest criticism was another attempt to create confusion among Ugandans.
“This young man has laid ‘siege’ on State House and the Security Agencies. There is big danger to the country,” Museveni stated.
Museveni said he was still capable of defending what he called the Ugandan and African revolutions despite criticism directed at him and his government.
“Since I am not dead, and I am still able to use my pen to defend the Ugandan and African Revolutions, I will tell you about Nuwagaba,” the President said.
He explained that his decision to speak out was because he believed Ugandans deserved to understand the circumstances surrounding the matter.
Museveni said Nuwagaba approached him after allegedly becoming a victim of torture and threats from some individuals within the security establishment.
According to the President, the young man required medical attention because of injuries and trauma allegedly caused by the abuse he suffered.
Museveni said some security personnel accused of involvement in wrongdoing were already facing legal action and investigations would continue.
The President questioned why some people were focusing on attacking Nuwagaba instead of examining allegations of misconduct by individuals within security institutions.
He argued that Uganda’s biggest challenge was not individuals who raise complaints but corrupt and compromised officials who misuse state authority.
Museveni said leaders must receive accurate information from citizens because formal systems sometimes fail to reveal problems happening on the ground.
He accused some officials of blocking information from reaching senior leaders, allowing corruption and misconduct to continue unnoticed.
The President insisted that security agencies were created to protect Ugandans and should never become instruments of abuse.
He said acts such as torture and illegal actions were against the principles of the liberation struggle that brought the current government to power.
Museveni also defended his record, saying he had never supported the torture or mistreatment of political opponents or ordinary citizens.
He warned that individuals who misuse government positions should not be protected because their actions damage public trust.
The President said Uganda’s future depends on strengthening institutions, fighting corruption and ensuring accountability among public officials.
He urged Ugandans to look beyond political disagreements and focus on protecting the country’s interests.
Museveni concluded by saying he would continue responding to issues he believes affect Uganda and would use his voice to defend what he considers the achievements and principles of the revolution he led.
