Senior Presidential Advisor for Defence Salim Saleh has called for greater government accountability in handling rising public concern over opposition figures, urging a coordinated response from both civilian and military leadership.
In remarks directed at Chief of Defence Forces Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Saleh emphasized the role of the Justice Ministry in clarifying state actions involving key political actors, including Kizza Besigye and Kampala’s Lord Mayor Emeritus Erias Lukwago.
Saleh pointed specifically to Norbert Mao, noting that as Chair of the Cabinet Standing Committee on Human Rights, he carries a constitutional obligation to address public anxiety surrounding arrests, detentions, and actions taken by security agencies.
“He has a duty to the public concerning the case of Dr. Kizza Besigye and any of his accomplices,” Saleh stated, adding that Mao must also explain actions undertaken by state security organs against individuals and organisations.
However, Saleh acknowledged institutional limitations, noting that the Justice Minister may not be fully briefed on classified military intelligence.
He advised that Mao should be furnished with adequate information to enable him to respond effectively and reassure the public.
The comments come at a time of heightened scrutiny over Uganda’s security operations, particularly involving opposition leaders and civil society actors.
Recent developments have triggered debate about transparency, rule of law, and the balance between national security and civil liberties.
Saleh’s intervention signals a rare internal call for coordination between military and civilian arms of government, especially on sensitive political matters.
Analysts view the statement as an attempt to streamline communication and reduce speculation surrounding state actions.
Salim Saleh's Message;
A veteran of the bush war and a key figure in Uganda’s post-independence military history, Saleh remains influential in both security and economic programmes.
He currently serves as Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation, a flagship civil-military initiative.
His remarks are likely to intensify pressure on the Justice Ministry to provide clarity, as public attention remains fixed on how the state manages dissent and opposition politics in an increasingly tense environment.