Odrek Rwabwogo, the chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee on Exports and Industrial Development (PACEID), has strongly responded to allegations made against him by Kasambya County MP Daudi Kabanda.
Rwabwogo accused his critics of spreading false information about him, saying some people were deliberately trying to damage his reputation through accusations that he described as unfair and misleading.
“This is why you hear these idiots telling lies about me. Rwabwogo cannot touch what is not his,” he said while defending himself against the claims.
The controversy started after Kabanda raised questions about land in Kiruhura District, alleging that Rwabwogo benefited from government property that was meant for public livestock development.
Kabanda claimed that the land was initially intended to support cattle farmers and establish a livestock project but was later used for other commercial activities.
However, Rwabwogo rejected the allegations, insisting that his investments were aimed at supporting Uganda’s agricultural transformation and creating opportunities for local communities.
He said the Nshaara Industrial Park was established to promote agro-industrialisation and not for personal enrichment as some critics have alleged.
Rwabwogo explained that his businesses have invested in areas such as coffee production, meat processing and dairy development, with the goal of adding value to Uganda’s agricultural products.
He said some projects faced challenges because of the Covid-19 pandemic, shortage of cattle and difficulties in meeting international export requirements.
According to Rwabwogo, his efforts have contributed to supporting farmers, especially through his milk processing activities in Rushere.
He said his factory has purchased billions of shillings worth of milk from farmers over several years, dismissing claims that local suppliers were abandoned.
Rwabwogo further argued that people accusing him should look at the impact of his projects on communities instead of focusing on allegations.
He said he has invested in development initiatives, including supporting schools, churches and community projects, as part of his commitment to improving people’s lives.
The PACEID chairman also defended his character by explaining that he was raised in a Christian family where honesty and respect for other people’s property were highly valued.
He said he fears engaging in dishonest actions because of the values instilled in him by his parents and his faith.
Rwabwogo accused some individuals of using political disagreements to spread damaging claims against him.
He insisted that he would not be distracted by criticism and would continue working on projects that he believes contribute to Uganda’s economic growth.
He also maintained that leaders should promote unity and reconciliation instead of attacking one another through accusations and personal disputes.
The businessman and presidential adviser said he would continue defending his name whenever false claims were made against him.
He called on Ugandans to seek the truth before believing accusations made against individuals, saying misinformation can unfairly destroy people’s reputations.
The ongoing exchange between Rwabwogo and Kabanda has continued to attract public debate, with both sides maintaining their positions over the allegations and responses.
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