Ex-Mbarara CAO Seeks Shs 300 Million Over Alleged Defamation

David Muhwezi, formerly the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for Mbarara District, has initiated legal action against Herbert Kamugisha, the chairperson of the District Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

Muhwezi is seeking Shs 300 million in damages and a public apology, asserting that Kamugisha made defamatory statements about him during a PAC meeting on June 16, 2026. The alleged statements accused Muhwezi of improperly selling prime government land in Kamukuzi without adhering to proper legal procedures.

According to Muhwezi, Kamugisha’s remarks, which were later disseminated through broadcast and social media, portrayed him as a corrupt official, causing significant embarrassment to his family, colleagues, and the public. The land in question was reportedly allocated to various government bodies, including the Administrator General’s regional office.

Muhwezi, through his legal representatives, denies any wrongdoing concerning the land disposal. They argue that the PAC overstepped its mandate by recommending Muhwezi step aside from his position, suggesting this action might have been influenced by personal animosity from Kamugisha.

Furthermore, Muhwezi alleges that Kamugisha was responsible for his arrest and subsequent two-day detention, from which he was released on police bond. Muhwezi’s lawyers have issued a 14-day ultimatum for Kamugisha to issue the apology and pay the compensation, warning of legal proceedings if he fails to comply.

As of the publication of the source article, Kamugisha had not yet issued a public response to the notice of intention to sue.