KAMPALA, Updated at 1248 EAT on Tuesday 30th June 2026 – A memorandum reportedly authored by General Caleb Akandwanaho, popularly known as General Salim Saleh, to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has generated widespread public discussion, with many Ugandans welcoming what they view as a call for greater adherence to the rule of law and institutional coordination.

In the memo, dated June 28, 2026, General Saleh reportedly requested the CDF to engage the Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Norbert Mao, in ongoing security operations involving opposition figures Dr. Kizza Besigye and Erias Lukwago.

The development has attracted significant public attention across Kampala and other parts of the country. In trading centres, restaurants, and social gathering places where residents had assembled to watch the Brazil versus Japan FIFA World Cup match, conversations reportedly shifted from football to national affairs, with many discussing the implications of the memo.
Several citizens interviewed praised General Saleh’s intervention, describing it as an effort to promote constitutional governance and ensure that the Ministry of Justice plays its statutory role in matters attracting national interest.

Dan Mukasa, an NRM local politician in Rubaga, said the memo reflected General Saleh’s leadership style.
“General Saleh has demonstrated that influence is not always exercised through authority but also through wisdom and humility. His approach strengthens public confidence in state institutions,” Mukasa said.

General Saleh, who serves as the National Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation (OWC), reportedly urged the CDF to ensure that Minister Mao is fully briefed on developments surrounding the investigations involving Dr. Besigye and Mr. Lukwago.

According to reports, the request followed concerns raised by Minister Mao regarding his limited access to information on the ongoing investigations despite his responsibilities as Minister of Justice and Constitutional Affairs and Chairperson of the Cabinet Standing Committee on Human Rights.

In the handwritten memo, General Saleh reportedly noted that the Justice Minister has both legal and political responsibilities to explain government actions to the public.
He wrote that Hon. Mao “has a duty to give a sense of perspective to the public concerning the case of Dr. Besigye and any of his accomplices” and also has a responsibility to explain actions taken by state security agencies against certain individuals and organisations.

The memo further observed that the Minister may not have access to intelligence information held by military and security agencies, despite coordinating the Justice, Law and Order Sector (JLOS). Observers say the proposal could improve communication between security agencies and the Justice Ministry, enhancing public understanding of government actions.
The note concluded with the phrase “Aluta Continua,” a slogan frequently associated with General Saleh.

The directive comes amid continued public debate over the arrests and detention of Dr. Kizza Besigye and former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago.
Commenting on the broader political environment, Buyinza Adam Luzindana, former National Vice Chairman of the NRM Youth League for Kampala and former member of the NRM National Executive Council, described General Muhoozi Kainerugaba as a leader who is often misunderstood.

Luzindana said the CDF has a humorous personality that is sometimes misinterpreted and argued that his military upbringing shaped his leadership style. He called upon Ugandans to engage with the CDF constructively in the interest of national unity and stability.
Meanwhile, the legal proceedings involving the opposition leaders continue to attract national and international attention.

Dr. Besigye faces charges linked to national security following his arrest, while his legal team and several human rights organisations have questioned the legality of the proceedings.
Similarly, Erias Lukwago was arrested by military personnel after publicly criticising General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.

He was later charged with misprision of treason before the Makindye Chief Magistrate’s Court. His lawyers have maintained that the charges are politically motivated and have challenged the legality of his initial military detention before being transferred to civilian authorities.

Political analysts say General Saleh’s memo has added a new dimension to the national conversation by emphasizing institutional coordination and the involvement of the Justice Ministry in matters of significant public concern. Supporters view the move as reinforcing constitutional governance, while others await further official communication on how the recommendations will be implemented.