State Minister for Local Government and Masaka Woman MP Justine Nameere has mounted a strong defence against investigative journalist Natumanya Andrew, also known as Ninyez Tabz, accusing him of evading law enforcement and spreading falsehoods after he allegedly threatened to expose her over fraud allegations.
In a detailed statement shared on social media, Nameere dismissed the journalist’s claims as defamatory and said legal action had already been initiated against him.
She further alleged that investigations into his background uncovered multiple criminal complaints filed across different jurisdictions.
“So called Tabz a Fugitive Media Bully EXPOSED!” she stated, adding that her legal team had uncovered what she described as a long list of pending criminal matters.
According to Nameere, the journalist is linked to at least 21 criminal files, which she claims stem from personal disputes rather than political reporting.
She also alleged that some of the complainants involved in the cases are influential individuals, though she did not provide specific details or court references.
She further accused him of attempting to negotiate immunity with security agencies in exchange for information, an offer she said was rejected.
Nameere claimed the journalist is currently evading authorities and has no stable residence, registered phone number, or traceable financial records.
“He is now on the run — no fixed address, no mobile money in his name, no registered number,” she said, intensifying the accusations in her statement.
The minister also questioned his professional standing, alleging that he operates without affiliation to any recognised media house or formal employment, yet presents himself as an investigative journalist on social media platforms.
She accused him of using online platforms to spread misinformation and target public figures for attention.
While maintaining that she has no intention of engaging in personal disputes, Nameere said she would proceed through legal channels. She emphasized that her actions were defensive rather than offensive.
“My lawyers will proceed. This file will be sanctioned and will await him when he is apprehended,” she stated.
She further framed the dispute as part of a broader problem involving online commentators who, in her view, use activism and journalism as cover for personal grievances.
She urged public figures and commentators to uphold accountability without resorting to harassment or character attacks.
“I stay in my lane. I do not strike — I defend,” she said, adding that critics should first address their own conduct before targeting leaders.
The exchange adds to growing tensions in Uganda’s public discourse, where confrontations between political figures and online journalists have increasingly spilled into legal threats and counter-accusations.