A fresh public dispute has emerged in Uganda’s media and political space after media personality Motiv Kasagga came out strongly in defence of investigative journalist Natumanya Andrew, also known as Ninyez Tabz, following serious allegations made against him by State Minister for Local Government Justine Nameere.
Kasagga’s response, delivered through a sharply worded statement, directly challenges Nameere’s claims that Tabz is a fugitive with multiple criminal cases and no traceable background.
Instead, he paints a contrasting picture of the journalist as an accomplished professional with international recognition and a stable personal life.
“Tabz is an award-winning freelance journalist with a known place of abode,” Kasagga stated, dismissing claims that the journalist is on the run or operating in hiding.
The media personality further highlighted Tabz’s involvement in international documentary work, noting his contribution to the globally recognised film Bobi Wine: The People’s President, which received an Oscar nomination.
According to Kasagga, this level of exposure contradicts assertions that the journalist lacks credibility or professional standing.
“He is a documentary filmmaker who contributed to the Oscar’s nominated ‘Bobi Wine the People’s President’ documentary film that made it to the global stage,” he said.
Kasagga also pushed back against allegations regarding Tabz’s personal and financial status, stating that the journalist is well-established and regularly travels internationally.
He cited the journalist’s possession of a German visa and described him as “always in and out of the country at will,” suggesting that he is not evading authorities as claimed.
On academic credentials, Kasagga said Tabz holds a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Makerere University and is currently awaiting graduation with a Master’s degree in cybersecurity.
He added that beyond journalism, Tabz is engaged in farming activities, with livestock at his ancestral home in Sheema, portraying him as economically stable and grounded.
“He has a decent life and his works in activism are invaluable,” Kasagga added, framing the journalist as a credible figure within Uganda’s civic and media landscape.
The remarks mark a direct rebuttal to Nameere’s earlier statement, in which she accused Tabz of being linked to at least 21 criminal files, lacking a fixed address, and spreading misinformation online.
She had also questioned his legitimacy as a journalist and vowed to pursue legal action against him.
However, Kasagga turned the criticism back on the minister, accusing her of engaging in propaganda and deflection instead of focusing on her official responsibilities.
“Your propaganda of making false accusations about people is outdated,” he said, in a statement that escalated the tone of the exchange.
In a particularly pointed remark, Kasagga questioned Nameere’s effectiveness as a public official, suggesting she should prioritise policy work within her ministry.
He also made controversial claims regarding her political legitimacy, alleging that her position in Parliament was the result of a flawed legal process.
“You ought to get a life and understand that you don’t even represent the people of Masaka,” he stated.
The escalating war of words reflects growing tensions between political leaders and media figures in Uganda, where disputes are increasingly playing out in public forums.
The exchange has drawn attention to broader questions about accountability, credibility, and the role of journalists and public officials in shaping public discourse.