President Yoweri Museveni has warned Ugandans about what he described as new schemes by veteran journalist Andrew Mwenda, accusing him of attempting to divert attention from serious issues affecting the country through his criticism of Stephen Nuwagaba.
Museveni made the remarks while responding to Mwenda’s recent comments regarding Nuwagaba, a young man who the President said came to him after allegedly suffering torture, maiming and threats from some elements within security agencies.
The President said Mwenda had previously attacked other government initiatives and individuals, and claimed that the journalist had now identified Nuwagaba as his latest subject of criticism.
“However, for today, I want to inform the Ugandans that the great journalist Andrew Mwenda is back with his schemes,” Museveni stated.
He accused Mwenda of previously attempting to discredit Uganda’s pharmaceutical industry by attacking local innovators and questioning their credibility.
Museveni said that after those efforts allegedly failed, Mwenda had now turned his attention to Nuwagaba, whom he described as a victim who needed protection and medical support.
The President questioned why there was strong criticism against Nuwagaba instead of focusing on allegations of misconduct by some security officers.
According to Museveni, Nuwagaba came to him as a fugitive after allegedly suffering torture, injuries and threats to his life from individuals within security structures.
He said Nuwagaba had spent months receiving medical attention in Uganda and abroad due to the effects of the alleged torture and trauma.
Museveni explained that while Nuwagaba’s condition had improved, some injuries caused by the alleged mistreatment remained.
The President said the allegations involving security personnel were serious and that some individuals accused of involvement were already facing legal action.
He questioned whether those attacking Nuwagaba were attempting to protect individuals accused of committing crimes within government institutions.
Museveni said torture, maiming and extra-judicial killings have never been part of his leadership philosophy, insisting that such actions go against the principles of the liberation struggle.
He stated that in his 56 years of political involvement, he had never tortured or ordered anyone to torture an opponent.
The President warned that security agencies must not commit crimes while fighting criminals, saying those responsible for abuses should be held accountable.
Museveni also said that some individuals within security institutions had become corrupt or compromised, creating challenges for the country.
He argued that the main problem facing Uganda was not Nuwagaba but individuals who block information, cover up corruption and prevent leaders from knowing what is happening.
The President questioned why investigative efforts were not focusing more on corruption allegations in areas such as government programmes, infrastructure projects and public institutions.
Museveni further defended the use of intelligence networks, saying both formal and informal intelligence systems had historically played important roles in national security.
He said some information reaching him about corruption and criminal activities had come from individuals outside official structures.
The President gave examples of situations where informal sources allegedly helped expose wrongdoing within government circles.
He maintained that Uganda must continue fighting corruption, abuse of authority and criminal activities regardless of where they occur.
Museveni concluded by warning against what he described as attempts to shift national attention away from real challenges facing the country.
He urged Ugandans to look beyond political disagreements and focus on protecting the country from corruption, abuse of power and individuals who misuse public institutions.
