Tensions within Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) have intensified after Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and commander of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF), threatened to have Minister Kahinda Otafiire arrested over comments regarding presidential succession.
The dispute began after Minister Otafiire told constituents he respects Muhoozi as the president’s son but opposes him becoming the next president, citing concerns over dynastic succession within the party.
In response, Muhoozi accused Otafiire of “using me in his fights with my father” and warned on X (formerly Twitter): “Hon. Otafiire should stop trying to use me in his fights with my father. He has a very big problem with Mzee, he knows it. Let us see if Mzee arrests him.”
In a follow-up post, he added: “Let Mzee decide what to do with Hon. Otafiire. It won’t take us half a second to arrest him.” Minister Otafiire responded simply with “LOL” on X, and no arrest has been made. President Museveni has not publicly commented on the exchange.
Political analysts suggest the confrontation reflects growing tensions over succession within the NRM. Observers note that while the ruling party has long been dominated by Museveni, discussions about dynastic succession and potential successors, including Muhoozi, have been a sensitive topic in recent years.
The online spat has drawn widespread attention on X, with netizens debating the implications for party unity, the role of the military in politics, and the tone of public discourse among senior leaders.
No official statement has been issued by State House or the UPDF clarifying the context of Muhoozi’s remarks.
