Fact-Check: Claims Against Kampala Woman MP Shamim Malende Lack Evidence

Kampala Woman MP Shamim Malende and partner Andrew Ssebunya.

KAMPALA — A weekend story published by Explorer Online alleging that Kampala Woman Member of Parliament Shamim Malende is “barren” and has engaged in multiple extramarital affairs has sparked public debate. A closer look, however, reveals that the explosive claims remain unverified and largely based on hearsay.

Allegations From Former Partner

The article, dated September 6, quoted Malende’s long-time partner, Andrew Ssebunya, who announced that he had ended their relationship. Ssebunya accused the legislator of infidelity with businessmen in Kampala and Nairobi, and further claimed that medical consultations had revealed she could not conceive.

He also dismissed circulating rumors that he had seized Malende’s cars and taken over her social media accounts, insisting that property the couple shared was acquired jointly before she became a Member of Parliament.

A screenshot of the article from the Explorer online Newspaper.

Fact-Check Findings

A review of the allegations shows that:

No medical evidence supports the claim that Malende is “barren.” Medical information is private and cannot be confirmed without her consent or official documentation.

No independent proof has been provided to substantiate accusations of infidelity. The article relies solely on Ssebunya’s statements without corroborating witnesses, records, or photographic evidence.

The Nairobi medical trips cited in the story are partly factual. Malende has previously sought treatment in Nairobi, including in 2022 after collapsing in court. However, no evidence connects these visits to alleged extramarital affairs.

Property dispute rumors remain unclear. While Ssebunya denies seizing her cars, this aspect of the story also lacks external verification.

Political Framing

The article’s headline referred to Malende as “Bobi Wine’s girl,” a phrase critics say is intended to politically frame the allegations. Malende is a well-known member of the National Unity Platform (NUP), led by opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi, alias Bobi Wine.

Media analysts note that attaching her private life to party leadership risks fueling political smear campaigns.

Most of the serious claims made in the Explorer Online story are unsubstantiated, speculative, or misleading. Without independent verification or Malende’s response, the allegations cannot be treated as fact.