Witnesses watched in disbelief as police car carriers rolled into the high-security neighborhood before towing away the powerful vehicles under tight security surveillance. The operation immediately attracted crowds of curious residents, journalists, and security operatives who cordoned off the area as events unfolded. The two vehicles, both described by security sources as high-end Toyota Land Cruisers, were reportedly recovered from the residence during what insiders called a “targeted evidence retrieval exercise.”

One of the seized vehicles bore registration number UBH 138W, according to officials familiar with the operation. Security agencies remained tight-lipped about the exact destination of the vehicles, but highly placed sources revealed that the cars are expected to undergo forensic examination as investigators widen their probe into alleged abuse of office, illicit enrichment, and misuse of public resources.

At the time of the operation, Anita Among was reportedly inside the residence with a team of lawyers and close associates. Sources said discussions between her legal team and security officials lasted several hours before the vehicles were finally removed from the compound. “She is inside with her lawyers,” one source at the scene disclosed as heavily armed operatives monitored movements around the property.

The latest development comes amid growing pressure on powerful government officials facing scrutiny over alleged corruption scandals that have rocked the country in recent months. Reports emerging from financial investigators further indicate that the Financial Intelligence Authority (FIA) has frozen access to several bank accounts linked to Among as investigations gather momentum.

While authorities have not publicly confirmed the details of the financial restrictions, sources within security circles say the account freeze is intended to “preserve evidence and protect the integrity of ongoing investigations.” Joint security agencies reportedly believe the investigations could uncover a wider network involving public officials, procurement deals, and unexplained wealth accumulation.

The dramatic seizure of the luxury vehicles has already triggered fierce public debate, especially on social media, where Ugandans expressed mixed reactions ranging from shock and celebration to skepticism over whether the investigations will lead to prosecutions. Some residents in Nakasero described the operation as “movie-like,” saying they had never witnessed such a high-profile security deployment in the upscale suburb.

“It was serious. There were many security vehicles and officers moving in and out. Then the Land Cruisers were loaded onto carriers and driven away,” one eyewitness recounted. Efforts to obtain an official statement from police and other security agencies were still ongoing by press time. However, insiders insist the operation was coordinated by a multi-agency security task force working closely with financial investigators.

Meanwhile, lawyer Alaka, who is part of Anita Among’s legal team, condemned what he described as “excessive public spectacle,” insisting his client remains innocent until proven guilty. “My client is cooperating with the authorities. We expect the investigations to proceed within the law and without political manipulation,” Alaka told The Investigator outside the residence.

He further questioned the manner in which the operation was conducted, arguing that investigators should avoid actions that could prejudice public opinion before any formal charges are brought before court. Despite the legal pushback, security sources maintain that the investigations are progressing rapidly and that more recoveries and interrogations could follow in the coming days.

As the scandal deepens, political observers say the unfolding developments could become one of the most explosive corruption investigations involving a top government official in recent years. For now, all eyes remain fixed on Nakasero — and on what security agencies may uncover next.

Earlier speculation had suggested that Tayebwa, like Speaker Anita Among, could face political difficulties following investigations into alleged corruption and misuse of funds in the 11th Parliament, which was presided over by the two leaders.However, on Monday sources told The Investigator that Tayebwa was cleared after intelligence agencies reportedly found no evidence directly linking him to any misuse of parliamentary funds.“Tayebwa is a clean man. We reviewed the expenditures and found no evidence connecting him to the release of illicit funds,” a source familiar with the investigations said. In a post on X last night, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba confirmed that the PLU, in consultation with President Yoweri Museveni, had endorsed the Ruhinda North legislator for the position.

Church Intervention

The Investigator has also learned that intense behind-the-scenes lobbying took place to shield Tayebwa from the political purge that has swept away his boss Annita Among.According to sources, senior religious leaders from both the Catholic and Anglican churches appealed to President Museveni to pardon and maintain Tayebwa in office.

It should remembered that in 2025, Tayebwa attracted attention in Mitooma District after donating a church reportedly valued at Shs2.5 billion. He handed over St. Charles Lwanga Church to Christians in Kigarama Parish during a thanksgiving mass led by Archbishop Lambert Bainomugisha of the Mbarara Archdiocese.“The Archbishop and Christians in Mbarara have been praying for Tayebwa, and now they believe their prayers have been answered,” a source said.

Sources further claim that Archbishop Bainomugisha personally reached out to senior leaders to plead for mercy and support for Tayebwa.“Tayebwa is among the most generous contributors to Catholic Church projects. The church felt it had a responsibility to stand by him during difficult times,” another source added.

Close Ties to Muhoozi

Sources also point to Tayebwa’s close relationship with Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba as another factor that strengthened his political survival.“The closeness between Tayebwa and Muhoozi was evident during the recently concluded MK Marathon, where Tayebwa played a prominent role,” the source said.Tayebwa has reportedly supported several PLU initiatives, a movement associated with Gen Muhoozi and his allies, including journalist Andrew Mwenda.

Elders Appeal to Museveni

Community elders from Mitooma District, including Gen Kahinda Otafiire, are also said to have appealed to President Museveni to retain Tayebwa as Deputy Speaker.The elders reportedly emphasized Tayebwa’s charitable work through his foundation, which supports vulnerable children through education sponsorship programs.“They told the President that Tayebwa is a disciplined leader who would never misuse public resources,” a source said.According to insiders, President Museveni considered the appeals from elders and religious leaders before the investigations cleared Tayebwa of wrongdoing.

Praised for Performance

Sources within government also say several presidential advisers praised Tayebwa’s performance in Parliament and described him as one of the emerging leaders within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).“Tayebwa is viewed as a loyal cadre and part of the future leadership of the NRM. Many believe he has the temperament and political maturity to guide younger leaders,” a source said.

Observers note that Tayebwa’s calm demeanor while presiding over parliamentary proceedings and his perceived loyalty to President Museveni have strengthened his standing within the political establishment.Some insiders also believe Tayebwa could play a key role in supporting Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s anticipated transition from military leadership into civilian politics.

Close Relationship With First Lady

The Investigator has also learned that Tayebwa enjoys a close working relationship with First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports Janet Kataaha Museveni, who reportedly holds him in high regard.

Uganda’s film industry is at a turning point. Once considered a creative niche space, it is now emerging as a vibrant sector with rising talent, improved production quality and growing commercial potential. Yet behind the glitz on screen lies a complex business ecosystem that stakeholders say needs deliberate investment, strong regulation and recognition of film as both an economic driver and a cultural pillar.

This call to action dominated discussions on the first episode of The Ugandan Podcast Season 4, organised by the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance in partnership with MultiChoice Uganda. Brian Mulondo, Local Content Manager at MultiChoice Uganda, highlighted the industry’s transformation over the past six years, crediting sustained investment in local productions. “Since the launch of Pearl Magic channels, we’ve seen a boom across all aspects of the industry,” Mulondo said. “Uganda has moved from having only a handful of professional cinematographers and sound engineers to a thriving ecosystem of skilled talent thanks to initiatives like the MultiChoice Talent Factory.” Today, Uganda can support multiple large-scale productions simultaneously with no shortage of competent crews. Mulondo added that MultiChoice’s commissioning model has empowered independent filmmakers to produce high-quality content now recognized on continental platforms such as the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards. Through commissioning and content acquisition, filmmakers earn, grow and retain ownership of their work after licensing periods.

From a regulatory perspective, Ruth Kibuuka, Manager of Content Development at the Uganda Communications Commission (UCC), stressed that the industry cannot thrive without structural and policy support. “Twelve years ago, UCC introduced local content quotas for broadcasters, but we quickly realized that while broadcasters were willing, the available content lacked quality,” she said. This prompted UCC to invest in capacity building, training over 10,000 filmmakers in directing, producing, scriptwriting and cinematography. Kibuuka emphasized film’s economic and cultural significance, noting its potential to employ millions while preserving Uganda’s heritage. She underscored the need for strong regulatory frameworks for quality assurance and intellectual property protection, citing UCC’s collaboration with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau and the Uganda Film Festival as key milestones.

Judithiana Namazzi, a TV host and producer, pointed to professionalism as a persistent challenge. “Many entrants lack training, which affects execution,” she said, urging creatives to embrace research, continuous learning and constructive criticism. “Excellence matters. If you accept a job, do it well because you never know who is watching,” Namazzi advised, adding that spotlighting women in film is critical to inspiring more female participation.

Award-winning filmmaker Loukman Ali noted that while Uganda’s creative talent is growing, the business ecosystem remains underdeveloped. Drawing comparisons with Nigeria, he observed that brands there actively seek product placement opportunities because they understand film’s commercial value. “In Uganda, brands still view film with skepticism, which forces filmmakers to self-fund, a cycle that affects quality and distribution,” Loukman said. He called for accelerated policy processes, warning that bureaucratic delays often render regulations outdated in a fast-evolving industry. “Technology is shaping the industry quickly and by the time policies come to light, the industry has already moved a step further,” he added.

Uganda’s film industry is brimming with potential, but unlocking its full value requires more than talent. It demands investment, robust policy frameworks and a mindset shift among brands and stakeholders to view film not just as art but as a business capable of driving economic growth and cultural influence.

At his apex, Kiwalabye was a minister of many dockets which include culture, tourism, security and other special duties among others. On the face of his resignation is smeared a `sick leave` as purportedly advised by his Australian doctors at Melbourne Medical Center in King Charles` land of Australia.

A Resignation Unseen in Decades:

After 30-years of service, the departure of Owek. David Kiwalabye Male is probably the first time a senior official has resigned from Mengo Palace since 2005. Back then, the Katikkiro, Owek. Joseph Mulwanyamuli Ssemwogerere, and his entire cabinet resigned.

This was amid a controversial agreement between Mengo and the central government, which aimed to establish a regional government and have a directly elected Katikkiro.  Furthermore, some cabinet ministers had political ambitions to run for elective positions in the 2006 general elections, leading to their resignations due to legal restrictions on cultural leaders participating in electoral politics.

Unlike in the above 2005 scenario where the Kabaka officially accepted Mulwanyamuli team resignation the following day on December 24^th 2005, Kiwalabye Male`s, we are authoritatively told, slept for over 90 days on the King`s desk without reaction. This period, even when the reasons given were to do with his health. It therefore gives credence to our assumption that a `sick leave` isn’t the reason Kiwalabye elected to Okukuba Kabaka obwami. Then what is it?

An Unraveling Conspiracy

 For starters, we have four streams of sources to this story. One so close to Kiwalabye, another so close to the Premier Owek. Charles Peter Mayiga, another from Kasubi circles and one from the inner circles of the power that be at Mengo. Whereas some no longer see eye to eye with each other, they all have one conviction in common. “It is time up, for Mengo mafioso to end. It is high time the Kabaka knew his real enemies and those of his people,” one said.

Having been one of the youthful Nkoba Zambogo founders back in 1990, Kiwalabye Male entered straight into Mengo mainstream at the department of Nkuluze (Kabaka`s Finance Department) for some years. From here, he became the head of Buganda Land Board (BLB) and under whose tenure, several transformations in Kabaka`s land structures, severely impacted his subjects negatively. Kiwalabye is accused of many land matters but he escapes the same through the `collective responsibility` route.

Having been one of the top youth leaders in Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi`s self-acclaimed Youth Generation reign, Kiwalabye Male rose through ranks to become one of the top King`s blue-eyed boys and a confidant at that. And therefore, as the reigning Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga aka CPM`s term drew to evening hours, the Kabaka felt, and confessed the same to his inner circle, that Kiwalabye was the man in his mind, to take over.

For beginners on Mengo affairs, Kiwalabye is one of the streetwise lads who covers all his would-be dull trails before the public eye. He can only be equated to the Premier himself, CPM. However, insiders are aware of the eight-member team of this caliber at Mengo, reportedly led by CPM the man. But just like what`s currently happening in Uganda`s yesteryears` formidable opposition political party FDC, Mengo files` leakages emerge via the tearing apart of this Streetwise Think Tank (STRETT).

And the miserable departure of Kiwalabye serves to squeeze the trigger to the hitherto suppressed volcanic eruption. As mentioned earlier, he was the man Kabaka had chosen to take the mantle from Mayiga, and, he had mentioned it to the inner circle members. But did the latter buy the idea? To the Kabaka`s face, they indeed bought it but, between them, a plan had to be hatched to draw the man away from the King`s favors and mind. Read on.

To the knowledgeable, Katikkiro Mayiga is said to have started with asking for an unlimited extension from the King. This was after his known two terms elapsed almost two years ago. And this particular quest for extension, says our source, was to allow him finish the Masiro project, just for the landmark not to be grabbed by his successor, in this case, possibly Kiwalabye Male. It should be noted that Premier CPM has no project, tangibly written to his name, save for completion of Masengere, and whose cost left many awe-struck!

His predecessor, Owek. Eng. JB Walusimbi has Muganzilwazza written among his achievements in Mengo. He built this from money collected from Buganda Certificates` sales through his Omumuli champaign. It currently stands as the only project singlehandedly built by Baganda during the Omulembe Omutebi and hence, the love for CPM to also have Kasubi Tombs to his name. We are reliably informed that whereas Kabaka didn’t put CPM`s extension application on record, he still, is reluctant to replace him.

This stance might however, shed some light on the Kabaka`s abrupt visit to Masiro recently, for onsite, firsthand facts on the developments there. The King kept details of his findings to himself but sources close to his inner circle confidently tell us, he left an unhappy man. “His findings might see CPM`s successor complete that project. Just know that quite a lot is taking place in there. And time is around the corner for the public to know all.”

A Deliberate Strategy

Knowing as earlier mentioned that Kiwalabye is a streetwise lad who play clean, his tracks, his adversaries` plan was to expose him to open scandals. How? That Kabaka eyed him for the top position was no longer a question. Now, the mission was to convince the man himself, and the appointing authority, to have him removed from single-job-description BLB, to a wider range of formal activities. This, they claimed, to allow him get used to the tasks of a Katikkiro ahead of him. This explains why he was assigned a cocktail of ministerial dockets to handle.

Upon him accepting to the arrangement, one of the top officials (name withheld for now), bragged thus; “Eyo enkonge emu esiguddwa.” This is Luganda for; “one of the firm trunks has successfully been uprooted.” Immediately Kiwalabye took the mantle, some `good Samaritan` made him aware how this was a trick to soil him before the Kabaka! How it was to be planned remained a mystery to him.

But even then, it was too late for reversal. He resorted to casting his suspicions net wider, just in case. This explains why there was no `wow factor` during his tenure as a minister. But he was not to be careful for good. Time had to come for him to serve his purpose of a prey. Firstly, he had been used to getting huge moneys from all tribes of land deals in Mengo where, he was the alfa and omega of the BLB docket. Now that taps had been locked, he would easily fall for anything with financial liquid, or so, his adversaries rightly thought.

Unfortunately, the chance arose through the deteriorating health of His Royal Highness the Kabaka. The situation further complicated when President Museveni became concerned about Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi’s health and reportedly allocated UGX4Bn for his treatment. During this time, as plans to draw money from State House drew near, the Katikkiro elected to go for leave, and subjected the same to the finance minister.

This left no one but Kiwalabye Male, entangled in the unfolding Mengo Leaks events. His departure now, from Mengo Palace, will shed light on a web of intrigue and power struggles that have remained hidden from the public eye for years. As “MengoLeaks” continues to unravel, more revelations are expected to surface, exposing the inner workings of this historic institution. This marks the end of the beginning of the big story…   

Disclaimer: The claims and allegations mentioned in this article are based on sources within Mengo Palace and are subject to verification and updates.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Military Intelligence, Major General James Birungi, Colonel Julius Mbaine said this is a follow up on various consultative meetings between Heads of States and different stakeholders that aimed at exploring non-military approaches as means of complimenting the military interventions to deal with negative forces in the region.

“The Dar-es Salaam meeting recommended the establishment of the Contact and Coordination Group (CCG),to facilitate voluntary surrender, Disarmament, Demobilisation, Repatriation, Re-integration and Resettlement (DDRR/R) of former combatants from negative forces,” said Col Mbaine.

According to Col Mbaine, Uganda is in the process of establishing a Rehabilitation and Reintergration Centre in Migyera, Nakasongola District. He called for support towards the establishment of additional centres in Kasese, Bihanga and Arua city under the Presidential initiative on Peace, Security and Development.

According to Col Paddy Ankunda, Director of Strategic Communications, Uganda hosts the Peace, Security, and Rehabilitation Center in Kasese District, which collaborates with the Rwenzururu Initiative for Social Transformation on activities such as receiving, screening, and interacting with ex-combatants, as well as reaching out to active ADF and other militant groups in the Rwenzori region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to encourage them to denounce rebellion.

The United Nations head of delegation, Coulibola Doholia applauded the UPDF for doing a commendable job and encouraged neighboring countries to do the same. “We feel it would be good if the neighbouring countries do the same and we want something sustainable for Uganda and other countries with similar assignment,” he added.

But the National Resistance Army Officer Number RA0040, an original combatant, goes home a broken man. This position, following his painful capture by the same government of his master and Commander in Chief (CiC), Gen. Yoweri Museveni, whom he had helped to capture power.

Brass with death

Following his capture, Kashilingi was framed and subjected to a false and malicious prosecution as a rebel caught in the hills of Kasese fighting fellow bush war combatant, Gen Museveni. Kashilingi had survived possibly an assassination by suspected fellow combatants who had raided his home in Naguru following the end of the guerrilla war.

Muntu and the Amazing Escape

He would amazingly escape to his safety, leaving his trail assailants seething with anger after going out by the back door. The assailants had checked everywhere for him, including the ceiling of the house, when the Iraqi-trained commando beat them to their game and pulled off his escape.

He had dialed the day’s army commander, Gen Gregory Mugisha Muntu for help but who had told him, he wasn’t aware of what was going on. He dialed Muntu once again for help, but he appeared to have done nothing useful to intervene on his behalf, nevertheless. Save that the army commander would only express surprise that the assailants were out to harm Kashilingi.

The Amazing Prison Break

Before linking up with Museveni in the bush, Kashilingi had been arrested several times on allegations of being a rebel of the then NRA guerrilla chief. During one of such memorable arrests, Kashilingi ended up thrown into Luzira prison where, he would go on to suffer for several months.

He would later, finally pull off an amazing prison break of his own. This is how Kashilingi is thought to have gone about securing his own self-release. Using a kitchen knife, Kashilingi is noted to have poked a hole in the prison wall. Following which, it’s suspected, he would daringly go ahead to amazingly pull off the memorable prison break of his own.

Joins Museveni’s War

Following the security agents` harassment of him, and his malicious detention on the false account of being the rebel of Yoweri Museveni, Kashilingi would finally break free from his tormentors and linked up with the present day President, in the bush, to help fight the past governments. During his ambush escapades, the current President would be guarded by Kashilingi, notably, during a rebel operation against the government troops in Masindi, in 1984.

Bulange Arson

Upon the capture of power by President Museveni, the current seat of Buganda kingdom known as Bulange, and then known as Republic House, was burned. The same was under the occupation of the new rebels in town by the time, yet one of the mysterious fires since the current government touched base in Kampala, occured.

Fingers were quickly, accusingly pointed at Kashilingi. But given that there was no much enthusiasm that had been shown by the new rebels in town to pursue the culprits, the matter would end up stopping at being discussed in hushed tones and actually, ended up there.

Framed up, vainly appeals to Museveni

Before long, and after the rebellion had succeeded, Kashilingi was arrested over plotting to overthrow the President of Uganda. He had stayed in DRC for sometime after the foregoing attempt on his own life at his residence in Naguru. He had made  several attempts to contact the President himself from his hideout in DRC,to table the serious threats to his life. But his enemies within the system, baying to subject him to terror, couldn’t let him succeed.

Divided loyalty

There had been an allegation of the terrible division within the new army structure based on who was, and was not, paying loyalty to the big guys in the military. The same majority of the army individuals were rendering loyalty to Salim Saleh whilst a few were paying allegiance to Elly Tumwine.

Kashilingi was so loyal to Salim Saleh. His son, advocate Hussein Kashilingi hazards a guess, that this is why perhaps, he paid for it with what was a so-close assassination of him and later framed up and incarcerated for years. Hussein guesses that because the President was too busy while putting in place the new government structures, he possibly failed to find time to rein in, on the divisions in the army based on loyalty to the bosses.

Chained non-stop in a hole

Following his capture and arraignment on treason charges, Kashilingi would be placed in chains for thirteen months non-stop while being kept under a hole. His lawyer son, Hussein says his father nearly lost sight in his eyes during such kind of inhuman and degrading detention

Museveni deceived prisoner was ok

And yet when the prisoner’s family complained to the President to intervene and release the father, Hussein notes, the big man was told by his tormentors that the man was very Ok and, just under house arrest. A magistrate would later, during the late 1990’s release Kashilingi after spending many years under the yoke of injustice.

Inspirational 

What he went through, would inspire his son to pursue the course of law to fight acts of injustice in the country.While Hussein is an avid supporter of President Museveni, he states that he no longer understands what majority of actors within the NRM party  stand for. Rest in peace elder Ahmed Kashilingi, and may God guide your fellow combatants to remember to guard jealously, the virtues you laid down your life down for.

Subsequent to that motto, we would recently go ahead and unveil a campaign to lay bare, businessman Sudhir Ruparelia’s property impropriety. Keeping true and alive to that spirit, we have so far highlighted the supposed scam via which Sudhir would end up owning Baumann House and Speke Hotel. We know that Sudhir is quite hostile to public scrutiny. That said and now known, we are acutely aware of the fact that whoever stands up to Sudhir, would either be silenced or bought out. But we have not, thankfully, buckled at all under such temptingly weighty influences. Nor are we yet to.

Subsequent to that, we are here yet again to share another scandal of how Sudhir, also Federal Republic of Nepal Consul to Uganda, posed one time in the past, as a proprietor of one of the properties in the high-end parts of Kampala but, of which, he wasn’t, in matter of fact. As it turned out, he was faking to be the landlord of a property he had never ever been a proprietor of at all, with the view to underservedly earn some really big rent in United States Dollars.

Sudhir’s targeted victim was none other than Pepsi Cola’s tycoon and ardent Golfer, Mzee Amos Nzeyi. But can you imagine! Nzeyi is a hugely exposed fellow. Also, the boss of Hot Loaf, Nzeyi happens to not only be exposed academically, politically and socially, but he is an astute businessman there is locally and globally.Consequently, it would take a man of Sudhir’s daring Kisenyi akin slum mannerism, to dare ry to con a man of Nzeyi’s astuteness.

Well, the story goes that one time in the past, Sudhir wrote to Nzeyi presenting himself as the landlord of a building he (Nzeyi) was occupying as a tenant. That building was located in Upper Nakasero’s affluent part of Kampala Capital City.

Not only was such a memo introducing the businessman as the proprietor of the building which Nzeyi happened to be occupying as a tenant at the time, but the same was also inflating the rent payable by Nzeyi by a whopping USD9000, up from the original USD1000.

Sudhir’s memo would end up leaving Nzeyi both livid and bemused. This gesture, since up to that point in time,Nzeyi had been a tenant of a landlord wholly different from Sudhir. But which Sudhir was here now writing as if he was actually Nzeyi’s landlord. Aware of the character which is Sudhir, Nzeyi swiftly got onto the line to his landlord in Canada. What he would end up learning from his Canada based landlord would end up shocking Nzeyi to the marrow.

Ismael Abdullah would tell Nzeyi how he had never ever at all, sold out his proprietorship in the building which SUDHIR was now claiming to be his. On the contrary, Sudhir had just previously approached Ismael with an offer to buy the building. But which same offer the proprietor himself had flatly turned down. Being a gentleman, Ismael had rejected such an offer by Sudhir aware that the law of equity required of him to give an opportunity to the sitting tenant, prior to entering any other deal with any kind of a third party.

Having thus learned from Ismael that Sudhir was up to no good but was merely up to screwing him as opposed to being the true landlord of the property which he was now claiming to be his, Nzeyi dispatched his lawyer Isaac Musumba, to Canada to finalize the deal of buying out Ismael. Looking to stop Uganda’s Kampala charlatans from defrauding him of his property, Ismael would readily agree to Nzeyi’s buy-out deal. For the record, Nzeyi himself had looked up Ismael in the mid 1980’s to come back and reclaim his building, following the explusion of Asians by Amin in 1972.

Ismael would turn the favor by allowing Nzeyi to rent his property at friendly terms for years, before Sudhir would himself come up and claim to be the landlord of the same property. Small wonder thus, that when Ismael finally decided to go of the property, he would choose to look at Nzeyi with favor as opposed to Sudhir who was deceitfully coveting the same. We pledge once again to return soon with more of such Sudhir’s purported property impropriety. Watch this space…

 Early this week, a group of overzealous NRM supporters converged at a Kampala suburb of Kyambogo and made the proclamation to the effect that President Museveni should continue offering himself for the Ugandan presidency the the 2026 general elections.

The group code-named itself Jajja Omalako (loosely translated as “grandpa, you are still fit enough to continue running this country”) insisted that there is nobody who can manage this country as perfectly as President Museveni. The Jajja Omalako proclamation comes at the heels of Chairman Norbert Mao’s transition project, which he has been trying to push around the country.

The DP Party President, who signed a memorandum of understanding that resulted into him scooping the ministerial docket of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, has been convincing the country that his deal with President Museveni involves the idea of transition from the bush war class to another generation and the adoption of a national dialogue.

However, Mao’s transition project has generated a lot of doubts from the politico class who think it’s just a comical waste of time. We, at the Investigator managed to make an informed analysis about this transition talk and clarified that it was foolhardy for Mao to think that President Museveni is stupid enough to transition himself out of power, just like that.

But Chairman Mao has been insisting that he is convinced that the President can consider holding a national dialogue and delivering a peaceful transition as a gift to the country and,as part of the deal that enabled him to merge his struggling DP into the NRM government.Interestingly , the only aspect of the deal which has so far been implemented include the jobsfor Chairman Mao himself being promptly appointed a minister, and his Secretary General,Dr Siranda, got elected to the East African Parliament.

Interestingly, early this week, President Museveni threw the spanner in the works when he came out to dispel suggestions that he had agreed a transition and national dialogue with Norbert Mao. This means that as far as the transition talk is concerned, the country has gone back to square one. It practically means that as far as transition from Museveni is concerned,the country has to get back to The Muhoozi project as the only viable option for a transition from President Museveni to another generation.

For the last five years, the Muhoozi Project that seeks to make First Son General Muhoozi Kainerugaba the next President of this country, has been trending as the only option being sold around the country by some young Turks close to the first family and lately, beyond. It has however been faced with all sorts of polarizing opinions from the politico class.

At first, the MK Project faced stiff resistance from opinion leaders, including military officers who have since retired from the army, prompting the First Son to twit that some senior officers openly hated him. But with the passing of time, the MK Project has gained some currency around the country with open mobilization for Gen Muhoozi to get assembled as the Presidential Candidate for the next elections.

In fact, it has sunk so deep that most Ugandans (including very senior citizens) around the country, have been convinced to embrace the project and resorted to seeking audience with Gen Muhoozi to solve their problems. The urban youths, who are known to profess opposition politics had also joined the MK bandwagon and had started using his portraits to brand their motorcycles and cars.

With the MK phenomenon in full cycle, the President also emphasized that the name (Muhoozi) he gave his son, means an avenger. This encouraged some shrewd Ugandans to assemble the mobilization tools at the service of the First Son. The Ugandan President has however been skeptical about encouraging the MK phenomenon to get to full swing levels.

He has sometimes made discouraging moves by removing him from command positions and switching him to lesser demanding assignments as Presidential Advisor. At one time, he removed him from command as Commandant of the Special Forces Brigade and appointedhim a mere advisor on military affairs before he brought him back as Commander of the Land Forces.

Then last month, the tweeting UPDF General made a controversial tweet that generated a diplomatic backlash between Uganda and neighboring Kenya. This is when he suggested that his UPDF forces could capture Nairobi in just two weeks without a hustle. This tweet led to a keyboard confrontation between Kampala and Nairobi and culminated into the removal of the tweeting General from the docket of Land Forces, plus an open apology from the President, to his Kenya counterpart Samoei Ruto and Kenyans.

But the Ugandan President went on to promote his son from Lieutenant General to full General to perhaps, dispel suggestions that he had lost confidence in him. Although MK has reached a point where some Ugandans can entrust him with power, it has put his father in a tight corner on what do about it. Gen Museveni is caught between a hard rock and deep sea predicament. This is because he cannot be seen to be opposed to the MK Project, but at the same time, confronted with the realization that it pushes him out of power.

But some overzealous Ugandans want him to come out and project the way forward for this country. It was in such circumstances that a group of NRM zealots came up with the Jajja Omalako project which seeks to make it clear that the incumbent should stay put in the seat of power. This proclamation also intends to make it clear that no other person, other than President Museveni, should consider to offer himself for the Ugandan presidency in the next elections.

With the emergence of the Jajja Omallako phenomenon, you would expect that it will have the immediate effect of extinguishing Norbert Mao’s transition talk and either postpone or completely undermine the Muhoozi Project. In fact it shields President Museveni from the pressure of having to vacate power when he still needs it for his personal benefits.

Management of Uganda Registration Services Bureau and its Board of Directors yesterday officially hosted the out-going Registrar General, Mr. Bemanya Twebaze to a farewell dinner to celebrate, honor and thank him for his contributions. Mr. Bemanya was in November elected the Director General of the African Regional Intellectual Property Organisation (ARIPO).  Former Director of Intellectual Property at URSB, Ms. Mercy Kainobwisho takes over as Registrar General and official Government Receiver

The highly attended dinner was graced by Ministers, Senior Government Officials, Executives of Government Ministries, Departments & Agencies, private sector executives, academics, diplomatic representatives among others.

Over the past 09 years, Mr. Bemanya has created a culture of steady performance, collaboration with other Government Agencies and innovation within URSB, supported Private Sector growth, enhanced registrations of vital services and led the engagement of stakeholders for collaborations vital for URSB’s growth over the years, turning it into one of the best performing government public service organisations.

The dinner provided an opportunity for leaders in attendance to praise Mr. Bemanya for his transformational leadership. Speaking first, Mr. Gideon Badagawa, the Executive Director of the Private Sector Foundation praised Bemanya for his selfless efforts to enhance private sector growth. Other speakers included the new Registrar General, Ms. Mercy Kainobwisho, Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, URSB Board Chair, Ambassador Francis Butagira.

‘We are saddened to see him leave, but we are so grateful for his tireless efforts in supporting private sector growth. Bemanya envisioned and managed great change throughout URSB by creating successful reforms for business registrations and initiated ground-breaking systems that saw the registration turn-around time drop from 31 days to an average 4 hours’.  Badagawa said

‘He turned around URSB from a perennially limping organization to one that was credible and was delivering results. His dedication resulted in the growth of Non Tax Revenue for Government taking it from a paltry 300m to over 56.9 billion in the 2019/2020 financial year. Bemanya’s legacy leaves a lasting impact on hundreds of thousands of businesses, and this number doesn’t include families, staff and others who were also impacted through his efforts and leadership’ the PSFU ED added

Ms Mercy Kainobwisho praised Mr. Bemanya for being a hands on formidable leader who will be hard to replace. ‘ I have been mentored by the best. Mr. Bemanya not only guided me, but offered my colleagues and myself opportunities to individually serve. He believed in gratifying our abilities and engaged us in countless leadership trainings. I am happy that I now step into the shoes of a heroic leader who has been instrumental to URSB’s stellar performance’ She said

“Bemanya has developed and led a committed team, each of whom plays an integral role in the everyday running of URSB,” said Francis Butagira, Chair of the Board of Directors.  “We will miss him but he leaves URSB in a very strong position for future growth and we sincerely thank him for his vision, leadership and contributions.”

Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu on his part said Bemanya’s elevation to the position of Director General at the Regional Intellectual Property Body was a win for himself and Uganda. ‘It is no doubt that Bemanya’s credible personal attributes helped us lobby for him for this ARIPO position as a country. I have visited nearly all organisations under my Ministry but URSB stands out as star performer. URSB’s One Stop Centre that is helping to ease business registration while formalizing our economy and supporting the creative industry through Intellectual Property is one such of the many outstanding achievements’ Kamuntu said

The Minister also took time to advise Ms Mercy Kainobwisho the incoming Registrar General to solidify the gains made under the tenure of Mr. Bemanya.

On his part, Bemanya said he was confident that URSB would continue to excel. “I am truly heartened by where URSB sits right now, “said Bemanya.  “In fact, it is the favourable state of our organization that has helped me get recognized and elected for the DG position.  To be sure, there will always be challenges, but I feel that URSB is now poised to enter an exciting period in its history.  The staff is led by both a committed Board of Directors and a very solid senior management team. URSB’s services delivery, and operational model are all in good standing. I believe that Mercy brings along new leadership with a keen eye, a fresh vision and boundless energy.” 

Bemanya advised his successor to curve her own style of management as long as it can deliver results. ‘Mercy, don’t try to fit in my shoes. They could be too small for you. Create your own unique path and keep the ball rolling. I believe in your abilities to keep URSB at the top’ he said

The dinner in honor of  Mr. Twebaze Bemanya was also graced by Attorney General Hon. William Byaruhanga, State Minister for Urban Development, Hon. Isaac Musumba, Assistant Auditor General Keto Kayemba, former Finance Minister Hon. Maria Kiwanuka, Uganda Law Society President, Fiona Wall, Past President Ruth Ssebatindira, UMRA ED Edith Tusuubira, Head, State House Anti-Corruption Unit Col. Edith Nakalema, Uganda Industrial Research Institute Executive Director, Prof. Charles Kwesiga,  High Court Judge Billy Kainamura, designate Female Justice Margaret Apinyi,  Brigadier General Stephen Kwiringira, Kampala Business man  Bob Kabonero among others.

This time, the EC was edged out of silence and expressed dissatisfaction through the aforementioned letter. The first police commentary on the letter was made by Fred Enanga who acknowledged receipt of the same.

On the 27^th of November, the IGP wrote back to the EC requiring details of those candidates who were claiming to have been blocked from accessing their venues. The reason he gave for this was “to be in a position to make specific response to the allegations once the particulars are made known” to them.

He further noted that the police had done its best to restrain candidates from staging rallies which could have risked the lives of citizens. They did this in consideration of the Covid19 pandemic. A noble thing indeed! It’s also an explanatory aid for several actions by the police. Whereas the EC, the public and the candidates were unaware, the police had not forgotten its primary role in this campaign; blocking candidates from accessing venues to deter mass gatherings.

One may sense that the IGP is very proud of the role his command has played in the campaigns so far. It is fathomable that he would, in the same measure and spirit, be aware of police operations. He would be aware of those candidates that have been the proverbial thorn in his side. Those candidates who the police have, on several occasions, encountered with the intention of holding mass gatherings.

Yet, the police boss seems not to be as enthusiastic about records keeping as he is about executing blockades. In any case, he claimed not to know who these candidates whose freedoms have been so violated are. For that reason, we should not expect to see substantial change in the manner in which police operates. At least, not until the EC has notified the IGP of who the mysterious claimants are.

Of course, as one may expect, the police by its nature is impartial and indifferent. Similar to the nature of courts which bars them from making judgments based on facts not presented to them during proceedings. Simply, it doesn’t matter that something, though not substantiated, is public knowledge. As such, the police cannot be expected to act off of unknown reports and media coverage, which the EC cited in the letter.

Meanwhile, Justice Simon Byabakama has met with Presidential candidate Robert Kyagulanyi to discuss the prevalent problem of violence. He had requested to meet with the Chairperson and members of the EC to make a presentation on issues concerning the conduct of Presidential campaigns. The EC granted the request and a meeting scheduled for this morning. He attended it in accompaniment of NUP officials.

As we wait for the outcome of this meeting, perhaps the IGP may take a hint at who is claiming police unfairness! Police ought to end the habit of playing fools to fool the public. This nosense of ‘order from above’ is not valid authority. Who on earth is this ‘above’?

It is apparent from the IGP’s reply that the police is not phased by the EC caution. One thing’s for sure; although the EC is mandated to issue electoral guidelines and ensure that they are followed and enforced correctly, it is not the ‘above’ in this context. Though, by all intents and purposes, it should be!