Security official Nuwagaba has strongly rejected allegations made against him by journalist Andrew Mwenda in an article published by The Independent newspaper on July 21, 2026, describing the claims as false, malicious, defamatory and unsupported by credible evidence.
He said the allegations appear aimed at damaging his reputation, questioning his integrity and creating a misleading picture of his relationship with Uganda’s security institutions and the Office of the President.Nuwagaba maintained that intelligence work is built on facts, verification, evidence and professional assessment rather than rumours, personal disagreements or speculation. He explained that Uganda’s security system operates through established institutions where information is independently collected, analysed and reviewed before any decisions are made, stressing that no individual has the power to determine the fate of public officers based on personal views.
He dismissed claims that he has the authority to influence appointments, transfers, dismissals or disciplinary actions within security agencies, saying such accusations misunderstand how Uganda’s security structures function. Nuwagaba said decisions involving security personnel go through formal institutional processes and cannot be controlled by one person.He also defended President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s approach to national security matters, saying the President has extensive experience in military, intelligence and security affairs and has always relied on verified information before making decisions.
Nuwagaba argued that portraying the President as someone who acts on unconfirmed reports from an individual is inaccurate and unfair.Nuwagaba further denied allegations that he demanded money from Assistant Inspector General of Police Frank Mwesigwa, describing the claims as completely untrue. He questioned why such serious accusations were not reported through official channels if they had actually happened, instead of being raised through newspaper publications without supporting evidence.He said he believes some disagreements surrounding public matters, especially issues involving land disputes and alleged abuse of authority, may have contributed to attempts to tarnish his name. Nuwagaba stated that he has always opposed the unlawful displacement of citizens and has kept the President informed through appropriate procedures whenever necessary.
The security official also rejected claims that he fabricated intelligence or influenced security decisions against certain officers. He insisted that intelligence reports undergo professional scrutiny and verification by relevant agencies before any action is considered, adding that no single person should be portrayed as controlling the entire security decision-making process.Nuwagaba concluded by reaffirming his commitment to accountability, professionalism and lawful procedures while maintaining that every person deserves fairness and the presumption of innocence. He said he remains ready to cooperate with any legitimate investigation but will take all necessary legal steps to defend his reputation against what he described as false and defamatory accusations.
