By Guest Writer
A civic coalition operating under the banner Friends of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), Uganda Development Forum (UDF) and the Namunkekera Rural Industrial Centre (NRIC) collectively known as Friends of OWC, UDF & NRIC has released a detailed statement challenging recent allegations that Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho Salim Saleh directed or was involved in violent incidents reported in Gulu.
According to the group, the accusations circulated on social media on December 6 contradict the verifiable public schedule of the senior presidential advisor.
Gen. Saleh served as Chief Guest at the 10th Anniversary of NRIC held the same day in Namunkekera, Kapeeka, where he presided over exhibitions, met industrial partners, and delivered a keynote address on rural industrialization.
“Every activity was public, documented, and attended by multiple stakeholders. There was no moment during which the General could have been in Gulu or participating in any operation there,” the coalition said.
Earlier Controversy: Land-Grabbing Allegation in Nakaseke
The controversy follows an earlier accusation made by Bobi Wine during a political rally in Nakaseke, in which he described Gen. Saleh as a “land grabber.”
In response to that claim, Gen. Saleh publicly stated that the land he acquired in Kapeeka was purchased legally after he sold a private property in Garuga. He urged critics to review land records before making allegations and acquaint themselves with Musevenomics, the national development ideology that guides Uganda’s economic transformation.
Independent reporting from development agencies and local authorities shows that Namunkekera now home to the NRIC and several industrial facilities has undergone substantial transformation over the past decade. Factories, processing plants, storage facilities, and small-to-medium enterprises have been established in the area, contributing to local employment and infrastructure expansion.
Development Versus Political Rhetoric
In their statement, the Friends of OWC, UDF & NRIC argued that the recent allegations illustrate a broader challenge in the country’s political climate, where unverified claims can rapidly spread online.
They warned that such narratives risk undermining public understanding of ongoing development initiatives, including rural industrialization programs in Nakaseke.
“We encourage all parties; government, opposition, and the public to ground political debate in verified information,” the statement read. “Ugandans deserve issue-based conversations that reflect facts, not speculation.”
Analysts Call for Verification
Political observers note that reports of violence or land-related disputes typically require rigorous investigation, including evidence from authorities, land registries, or independent human-rights organizations.
As of this publication, no independent body or court has confirmed the allegations involving Gen. Saleh either regarding the Gulu incident or land acquisition in Kapeeka.
A Call for Responsible Communication
The Friends of OWC, UDF & NRIC said they will continue to clarify misinformation while urging leaders across the political spectrum to prioritize constructive dialogue and evidence-based reporting.
“Development work across the country should not be overshadowed by unverified claims,” the coalition said.
“We appeal to all Ugandans to value accuracy, transparency, and national progress over rumor-driven divisions.” (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
