Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) presidential candidate Nathan Nandala Mafabi has hit back at President Yoweri Museveni, challenging him to produce evidence to support claims that he sold land belonging to the Bugisu Cooperative Union (BCU).
While campaigning in Teso earlier this week, Museveni reportedly accused Mafabi of selling off BCU property to settle debts, remarks that the FDC leader has dismissed as baseless and politically motivated.
Speaking to supporters in Mbale, Mafabi said Museveni should “be man enough” to repeat the same allegations when he campaigns in Bugisu and present concrete proof of any land transactions.
Mafabi said the people of Bugisu know the truth about BCU and who really crippled it.
BCU land controversy
Mafabi explained that he took over the leadership of the BCU in May 2008, long after the disputed land had already been sold off by a previous administration led by John Wamulugwa.
He accused senior government officials of colluding with Wamulugwa’s team to mismanage and dispose of BCU assets, saying President Museveni later shielded those responsible instead of holding them accountable.
He accused Museveni of deliberately distorting these facts for political gain. He further warned that the President’s remarks were “provocative” and vowed to respond politically when Museveni campaigns in the Bugisu sub-region. “
The Bugisu Cooperative Union, once a thriving farmers’ organization and major exporter of Arabica coffee, has for years been embroiled in internal wrangles and financial struggles. Many of its properties, including prime land, have been lost through contested sales and debt recovery proceedings.
About the Author
