Ugandan-Germany based writer and outspoken government critic Kakwenza Rukirabashaija has publicly accused his former partner, Annet Whitehead of a sustained campaign of cyberbullying and false allegations, which he claims have jeopardized both his personal and professional life.
In a lengthy social media post shared early Thursday, Kakwenza, 36, detailed how his relationship with Whitehead soured following his exile to Germany in 2022.
The award-winning author claims that Whitehead falsely accused him of rape, abuse, and other misconduct, and attempted to influence organizations supporting his legal and literary work to withdraw their backing.
“This is the woman I once loved,I was shocked at her jilted and irrational accusations, but I stayed silent to protect our child and our shared memories.”Kakwenza wrote, noting Whitehead’s past support during his recovery from injuries allegedly sustained through torture in Uganda.
Kakwenza alleges that Whitehead, along with others he calls “bankrolled ghost women,” tried to derail his success and credibility, including influencing two other women in Germany to file similar accusations—claims which were later dismissed and reportedly led to him receiving state compensation.
Now based in Munich, Kakwenza likened Whitehead’s actions to the political persecution he fled in Uganda, accusing her of exploiting social media and what he termed “flopped Me Too irrational prejudice” to damage his reputation.
Whitehead, a British expatriate also living in Germany, has not publicly responded to the statement. Attempts to reach her for comment were unsuccessful.
Kakwenza also claims Whitehead has blocked his efforts to financially support their child, recounting how she allegedly rejected a £5,000 offer sent through a mutual friend.
Despite the deeply personal accusations, Kakwenza’s message ended with a broader call for mutual respect after relationships end.
“When you fall out with a man, it should never translate into rape allegations, abandonment, or hate.You can part ways without revenge. It’s called RESPECT.”,he noted.
He also criticized what he called “half-baked feminism” and the misuse of movements like Me Too, urging for justice that doesn’t rely on public prejudice—especially toward public figures like himself.
The post has stirred debate online. Supporters commend his candor and call for dialogue, while critics argue he is undermining legitimate concerns and attempting to rewrite the narrative. “He’s a brave writer, but this sounds like a man scorned,” one user commented. Meanwhile, the hashtag #JusticeForKakwenza began trending shortly after his statement.
Despite the controversy, Kakwenza’s literary career continues to thrive. His latest book, The Savage Avenger, has received international praise, and he remains an influential advocate for freedom of expression, recognized by PEN International.
As of now, no legal proceedings are reported between Kakwenza and Whitehead. However, his message suggests a desire to move on. “Wherever she trades lies about me, I hope they know,” he concluded. “We’re tired of prejudice against innocent men.
