President Museveni recently appointed his son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), marking a significant shift in the country’s military leadership. Gen. Muhoozi, a four-star general, will now undertake the crucial responsibilities of overseeing Uganda’s armed forces while concurrently serving as a presidential advisor for special operations.
Observers suggest that these dual roles afford Gen. Muhoozi ample opportunity for close interaction with his father, President Museveni, especially considering the likelihood of the president extending his tenure into a fourth decade beyond 2026. Critics perceive this appointment as a strong indication of President Museveni’s preference for Gen. Muhoozi as his potential successor. Over the years, Gen. Muhoozi has strategically built a support network, both overtly and covertly, positioning himself as a formidable presidential candidate.
This network extends across various sectors of Ugandan society, including Parliament, where lawmakers such as Lillian Aber, Michael Mawanda, and Daudi Kabanda align themselves with Gen. Muhoozi’s interests. Notably, Ms. Aber has transitioned to Museveni’s Cabinet, where she joins other Muhoozi supporters like Frank Tumwebaze. However, it is within the ranks of the military that Gen. Muhoozi’s aspirations for presidency are believed to find the most tangible support.
Several high-ranking officers within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) are perceived as loyal allies of Gen. Muhoozi. These officers possess extensive experience and strategic importance within the military hierarchy.
One such figure is Lt. Gen. Kayanja Muhanga, whose familial ties to Gen. Muhoozi and involvement with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) solidify his allegiance. Lt. Gen. Muhanga’s military career is marked by significant contributions, including commanding operations against al-Shabab in Somalia and combating rebel groups in Uganda’s Acholi Sub-region.
Another influential figure is Lt. Gen. Sam Okiding, slated to become the deputy Chief of Defence Forces. Lt. Gen. Okiding’s past collaborations with Gen. Muhoozi during their tenure in the Land Forces indicate a harmonious working relationship between the two.
Similarly, Maj. Gen. Bob Ogiki, currently undergoing advanced military training, has a history of serving in critical operational and strategic roles within the UPDF, making him a valuable asset to Gen. Muhoozi’s network.
Brig. Charity Bainababo, a cousin of Gen. Muhoozi, has held significant positions within the police and military, further strengthening familial and professional ties to Gen. Muhoozi.
These officers, along with others like Col. Allan Matsiko, Maj. Gen. James Birungi, Brig. Dan Kakono, Brig. Asaph Mweitesi Nyakikuru, Col. Nathan Nabimanya, and Brig. Felix Busizoori, constitute a cadre of key allies within the UPDF who are likely to play pivotal roles in Gen. Muhoozi’s career trajectory and potential presidential ambitions.
