Ex-Mbarara CAO demands Shs 300m from district PAC chair over alleged defamation

Former Mbarara district chief administrative officer (CAO) David Muhwezi has demanded Shs 300 million in compensation from the chairperson of the Mbarara District Public Accounts Committee (PAC), Herbert Kamugisha, over alleged defamatory statements.

Muhwezi claims Kamugisha made the statements during a sitting of the Mbarara District Public Accounts Committee held on June 16, 2026, at the Kamukuzi District Council Hall, where he allegedly accused the former CAO of irregularly disposing of prime government land at Kamukuzi without following the prescribed legal procedures.

He further alleges that Kamugisha publicly portrayed him as a corrupt public official through statements that were subsequently circulated on broadcast and social media platforms, causing embarrassment to his family, colleagues and the wider public.

In a notice of intention to sue, Muhwezi is demanding a public apology and Shs 300 million in compensation for what he describes as damage to his reputation, integrity and professional standing.

The disputed land was reportedly allocated to several government institutions and other entities, including the regional office of the Administrator General. Muhwezi, however, denies any wrongdoing.

Through his lawyers, Muhwezi argues that the Public Accounts Committee acted outside its legal mandate by allegedly recommending that he step aside from office and be replaced by his deputy.

He contends that the committee’s resolution subjected him to public ridicule and humiliation and may have been motivated by Kamugisha’s personal vendetta against him.

Muhwezi further alleges that Kamugisha caused his arrest by police, resulting in his detention for two days before he was released on police bond.

His lawyers have given Kamugisha 14 days to issue the demanded apology and pay the compensation, warning that failure to comply will result in legal proceedings. Kamugisha had not publicly responded to the notice by the time of publication.

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