Kampala: Officials from the Ministry of Defence and the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) have moved to dispel reports circulating on social media that businessman Charles Mbire once served as an aide to Gen. Salim Saleh. The officials describe the claims as “fabricated” and “unsupported by any official record.”
The allegations originated from an online publication that linked Mbire to past transactions involving Greenland Bank and the former Uganda Commercial Bank (UCB), alleging that he acted on behalf of Gen. Saleh in a military-related capacity. The story has since raised concern among security insiders, prompting a formal clarification.
UPDF sources confirm that Mbire has never held any position within the army and has no affiliation with Saleh’s military service or role as an aide-de-camp. They noted that the rumours appear to stem from a misunderstanding of Mbire’s longstanding involvement in Uganda’s financial and investment circles.
Mbire, an economist trained at Essex University with an MBA from the University of Leicester, is widely regarded for his work in mergers and acquisitions. His detailed analysis of Uganda’s banking sector played a pivotal role during the period when investors were evaluating the viability of UCB, which later became Stanbic Bank.
Beyond that, he has authored investment appraisals for multiple entities seeking opportunities in Uganda’s financial market, earning him a reputation as one of the country’s most influential private-sector advisors.
Security officials stressed that misrepresenting Mbire’s professional background risks distorting public perception and undermining his contribution to the economy. They urged media outlets to verify sensitive claims before publication, noting that inaccuracies can damage reputations and fuel unnecessary speculation.
The clarification comes amid increased scrutiny of online reporting, with authorities reminding the public to rely on credible sources when assessing stories involving national institutions and high-profile individuals.