Uganda’s military chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has announced plans to leave the country’s top military position after two years, raising speculation about his political future.
In a statement on Friday, November 6, Muhoozi said he had accomplished the responsibilities he ‘believed God had assigned him’ and was preparing to hand over the office to another qualified military officer.
However, Muhoozi clarified that his departure would not happen immediately, assuring Ugandans that he would remain in the military for at least another year.
“Don’t worry, I’m still around. At least for another year. My heroes have always been UPDF soldiers. We are struggling to improve their accommodation,” Muhoozi said.
Muhoozi went ahead to defend his leadership style as the head of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, arguing that the position required a strong military commander rather than a diplomat.
President Yoweri Museveni appointed Muhoozi to the position on March 21, 2024, replacing General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, who was subsequently appointed Trade Minister.
Prior to his appointment to the helm of the country’s military, Muhoozi had been a member of Uganda’s defence forces since 1999, after attending the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom.
His announcement comes against the backdrop of widespread speculation that he could succeed his father, Museveni, who has governed Uganda for about 40 years, since 1986.
In August this year, Muhoozi announced his plans to vie for the country’s top leadership position in 2031 after his father steps down-Kenyans.co.ke.
