Salim Saleh Denies Land-Grabbing Claims, Urges Leaders to Prioritize Productive Work

Retired General and Senior Presidential Adviser Salim Saleh has dismissed allegations linking him to land grabbing, saying both opposition figures and some members of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) misunderstand his work.

Speaking to CEOs at Namunkekera Industrial Park in Nakaseke District on October 17, 2025, Saleh expressed frustration that despite his efforts to promote industrialisation and collaborate with productive sectors, his intentions are often misrepresented.

> “I have a dilemma because NRM does not understand me, and NUP does not understand me,” he said, referring to the National Unity Platform (NUP).

Saleh addressed accusations from opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu (Bobi Wine), denying any involvement in land grabbing. He explained that he had sold his waterfront property in Garuga before relocating to Kapeeka, and suggested that Kyagulanyi may have more significant land disputes of his own. “In terms of land grabbing, he might even be a bigger land grabber,” Saleh remarked.

He called on political leaders to move beyond rallies and engage with the productive sectors driving Uganda’s economy, noting that many remain disconnected from local government realities and the investment community.

> “You should spend more time in productive work, not politicking,” he emphasized.

Saleh also pointed out ongoing challenges in land governance and delays in the “Chapa loan” scheme, which he believes exacerbate land-related unrest. He urged the private sector to take a more active role in national development and stressed the importance of linking government programmes efficiently with economic actors.

Land issues remain a sensitive and contentious topic in Uganda, with frequent reports of land grabbing and forced evictions. Saleh’s statements highlight the ongoing communication and trust gaps between the government, ruling party, and opposition on these matters.