Rwabwogo tells Muhoozi: Only Museveni can stop me, follow the law

Odrek Rwabwogo, the chairperson of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID) and son-in-law to President Yoweri Museveni, has directly addressed recent criticisms and actions by his brother-in-law, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

The dispute escalated following the arrest of Rwabwogo’s associate, Mathew Bagonza. Gen. Muhoozi had previously declared PACEID an illegal and corrupt entity, warning government bodies against engaging with it and even sharing a photo of Bagonza in a compromising state, suggesting harsh treatment.

Rwabwogo asserted that any individual, including Gen. Muhoozi, must adhere to the rule of law. He stated that if Bagonza committed any offense, he should face a competent court and receive a fair trial. Rwabwogo also criticized the treatment of Bagonza, arguing that suspects deserve dignity and humane treatment, regardless of allegations.

He further defended PACEID, an organization formally established in March 2022 with a mandate to boost Uganda’s exports. Rwabwogo explained that PACEID reports directly to President Museveni and has been instrumental in developing value chains for various products, contributing to increased production and market access for Ugandan entrepreneurs.

Rwabwogo revealed that he met with President Museveni, who reportedly denied authorizing Bagonza’s arrest or any operations against PACEID officials. This encounter followed previous public exchanges between Rwabwogo and Muhoozi, including an earlier accusation by Muhoozi labeling Rwabwogo as “Uganda’s biggest thief.”

Rwabwogo stressed that disregard for established procedures, as exemplified by the recent events, creates indiscipline that could harm the nation. He maintained that PACEID is a legitimate institution operating within the government framework.

Source: The Observer (Uganda)