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In a move that has stirred speculation about succession plans, Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni announced the promotion of his son to the top military post. General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has been appointed as the chief of defence forces, according to an announcement by the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs.
Kainerugaba’s rapid ascent through the ranks of the Ugandan army since the late 1990s has raised eyebrows, with many viewing this move as part of a grooming process for the presidency. The 49-year-old general had previously hinted at his presidential ambitions, although he has also denied claims of actively pursuing the top job.
Despite laws prohibiting serving army officers from engaging in partisan politics, Kainerugaba has been actively involved in rallies across the country, advocating for causes under the banner of the Patriotic League of Uganda, which he claims to be nonpartisan.
President Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, faces speculation about his succession within the ruling National Resistance Movement party. With no clear rivals, the military’s influence in choosing his successor is considered significant.
Supporters of Kainerugaba argue that his ascent could pave the way for a peaceful transfer of power, potentially the first in Uganda’s post-independence history. However, critics express concerns about the implications of hereditary rule.
While both Museveni and Kainerugaba deny any orchestrated scheme for succession, the recent appointment to the army’s top position, along with ministerial reshuffling, suggests a transition may be underway.
Discussion about Kainerugaba’s potential succession has previously been met with government crackdowns, including the shutdown of media outlets in 2013 for publishing leaked memos alleging such plans.
As a high-ranking military official, Kainerugaba is restricted from publicly discussing political matters, yet he has frequently found himself embroiled in controversial statements, causing diplomatic tensions for Uganda.
Despite past incidents, including a remark about invading neighboring Kenya which was later dismissed as a joke, Kainerugaba’s father, President Museveni, has defended him and even promoted him shortly after the incident.
In recent remarks, Kainerugaba’s vocal support for causes beyond Uganda’s borders has drawn attention, reinforcing speculation about his political aspirations and the future direction of Ugandan governance.
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