Summary:
- Last week, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni appointed Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, formerly the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, as the new Chief of Defence Forces, replacing Gen Wilson Mbadi, who was reassigned as the State Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives with a focus on trade.
KAMPALA: Medard Sseggona, the Member of Parliament for Busiro East, has raised doubts regarding General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s suitability for political leadership, stating that “Politically, he lacks the stability required for elective office.”
Despite General Muhoozi’s extensive travels across the country to garner support for his presidential bid in the 2026 Ugandan elections, Sseggona believes that the best course of action is to empower him and sideline those within the military who may oppose him, thereby strengthening his position.
Last week, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni appointed Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, formerly the Senior Presidential Advisor for Special Operations, as the new Chief of Defence Forces, replacing Gen Wilson Mbadi, who was reassigned as the State Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives with a focus on trade.
However, Sseggona suspects that Muhoozi’s appointment as Chief of Defence Forces is part of President Museveni’s strategy to undermine his son’s potential challenge in the 2026 general elections, while also grooming him for the presidency in 2031.
“Museveni doesn’t want his son to vie for the presidency in 2026. Instead, he envisions General Muhoozi’s candidacy in 2031. Museveni recognizes that Muhoozi’s rapid ascent could pose a threat in 2026. By elevating him within the army, Museveni aims to temper his ambitions while preparing him for future leadership,” said Sseggona.
He urged Ugandans not to despair, asserting, “We mustn’t lose hope in our fight against dictatorship. While sinister plans are devised, divine intervention may be at play. Perhaps this move is designed to inflate Muhoozi’s ego, giving the impression of power, while political machinations continue.”
Michael Mawanda, the Member of Parliament for Igara East and a member of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), dismissed Sseggona’s assertions, stating that General Muhoozi’s recent appointment brings him closer to power and offers an opportunity for PLU members to showcase their capabilities.
“PLU has been strengthened by our inclusion in the current government, laying the groundwork for our future endeavors. The president’s trust in PLU is evident by the appointment of our colleagues. We congratulate them and look forward to contributing to our country,” said Mawanda.
