Gen. Salim Saleh Rejects Land-Grab Allegations Amid Political Tensions
Kampala /Uganda. Retired general and Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security, Gen. Salim Saleh, dismissed recent accusations of land grabbing and misused funds, characterising them as “misinformation and propaganda”. He said some opposition figures and even members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) “misunderstand” his work.
Gen. Saleh, also brother to President Yoweri Museveni, who runs the large Namunkekera Industrial Park in Nakaseke District, emphasised his operations are industrial and developmental — not part of land-grabbing schemes. He stated that he is being unfairly targeted by political narratives ahead of the 2026 general elections.
He said:
“Some opposition, some NRM leaders misunderstand my work… I’m not a land grabber.”
The comments come at a time of heightened political scrutiny over land deals and industrial parks in Uganda, with critics alleging that powerful individuals within government circles exploit land rights and government connections for private gain. Saleh’s public rebuttal seeks to pre-empt such criticisms and frame his role as contributor to economic development rather than beneficiary of patronage.
Analysts say this episode underlines two key trends: first, the growing prominence of land and industrial-park concerns in Uganda’s politics ahead of elections; and second, the increasing willingness of senior figures to respond publicly to allegations rather than remain silent.
Why it matters & implications
It signals that land-grabbing claims are gaining traction in public discourse and may become a campaign issue in the upcoming 2026 elections.
The stance of Saleh may influence how the NRM manages its internal politics—especially how it handles criticism of its senior figures.
For investors and industrial-park stakeholders, the public statement may help reassure them that the Namunkekera project is stable and not under siege from reputational risk.
For the public, this may heighten demand for accountability around land rights, industrial-park transparency and relationships between government, business and local communities.
What to watch next
Whether opposition parties respond with counter-allegations or demand investigations into land deals involving government associates.
If Saleh’s statement triggers follow-up media investigations into his industrial-park operations and land holdings.
How this story plays into broader election-year narratives, particularly regarding governance and land reform.
Any policy or legal moves by the government to tighten land-deal transparency, especially in industrial zones.
