Exiled Ugandan lawyer and government critic Kakwenza Rukirabashaija has cautioned Masaka City Woman MP Justine Nameere over her recent remarks targeting Nation Media Group Uganda Managing Director Susan Nsibirwa, warning that her statements could expose her to a defamation lawsuit.
The warning follows an ongoing public dispute between Nameere and Nsibirwa that has played out on social media, drawing widespread attention and reactions from political and media circles.
In a message shared online, Kakwenza urged the legislator to reconsider her tone and statements, suggesting that political backing may not shield her from legal consequences.
“Nameere Justine, pump the brakes. Your godfathers can protect your Masaka seat, but they won’t be standing beside you in the civil suit when your big mouth writes cheques your political protection can’t cash,” Kakwenza stated.
He further warned in a mix of English and Luganda: “Rekyeraho okugambira ebyo nkekinyaampo, it will cost you more than votes one day,” loosely cautioning her to stop making reckless statements that could prove costly in the future.
The remarks come after Nameere made a series of personal allegations against Nsibirwa during their online exchange, claims that the media executive dismissed as false and defamatory.
Nsibirwa has since indicated she is considering legal action, stating that the allegations could “land you in court for defamation.”
Legal experts note that defamation involves publishing false statements that harm a person’s reputation, and public figures are not exempt from liability if such claims are proven to be malicious or unsubstantiated.
Kakwenza’s remarks adds a legal and political dimension to the dispute, highlighting the potential risks leaders face when public disagreements shift from policy or professional critique to personal attacks.
The exchange has also reignited debate over the conduct of public officials on social media, with critics calling for restraint and accountability, especially when disputes involve serious allegations.