Salim Saleh Writes to CDF Muhoozi Over Besigye, Lukwago Cases

Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho, commonly known as Gen. Salim Saleh, has written to Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba requesting a briefing on the detention and prosecution of opposition leaders Dr. Kizza Besigye and Erias Lukwago.

Saleh, who serves as Senior Presidential Adviser on Defence and Security and coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation, sent the handwritten note on June 28, 2026.

Titled “The Lukwago Issue,” the communication reflects growing concern within government circles about the political and public repercussions of these high-profile cases.

In the note, Gen. Saleh states that Justice and Constitutional Affairs Minister Norbert Mao — who chairs the Cabinet Standing Committee on Human Rights and coordinates the Justice, Law and Order Sector (JLOS) — has a responsibility to provide the public with a clear perspective on the matters involving Dr. Besigye and his alleged accomplices.

He added that because Mao may not have full access to information from military and intelligence agencies, he should receive a detailed briefing to enable him to address public concerns effectively.

The note was copied to the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, and the Office of the Prime Minister.

Gen. Saleh’s intervention comes amid rising public debate over the arrests and ongoing cases, as well as increased public statements from security officials on the matter.

Political analysts suggest the veteran bush war commander may be attempting to reduce tensions, as unchecked public discontent could lead to unrest.

The cases have drawn sharp criticism from lawyers, opposition parties, civil society organisations, and regional legal bodies.

This is particularly true regarding Lukwago’s arrest on charges of misprision of treason and the continued prosecution of Besigye and his co-accused.

The memo also indicates possible efforts inside government to develop a more coordinated approach to an issue that has shifted from a legal matter into a wider political and governance challenge.

Neither Gen. Muhoozi nor the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) had issued a public response to the note.

Nevertheless, the communication highlights the delicate nature of the cases and concern among some officials that the controversy could further heighten the already charged political climate

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