In a move that has sparked widespread discussion across Uganda and beyond, President Yoweri Museveni has appointed his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) of Uganda. The announcement came on Thursday evening, as part of a broader cabinet reshuffle.
General Kainerugaba, 48, has experienced a rapid rise through the military ranks, a trajectory that critics have labeled the “Muhoozi Project,” suggesting it is a preparation for him to assume the presidency¹. This appointment follows a controversial period last year when General Kainerugaba was removed from his position as commander of Uganda’s land forces after making threats to invade neighboring Kenya in social media posts.
The Ministry of Defence stated that General Kainerugaba replaces Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, who has been appointed Minister of State for Trade³. The ministry’s statement highlighted the change as part of a routine reshuffle, but it has not quelled the rumors of a potential succession plan.
President Museveni, who has been in power for nearly four decades, has faced speculation about his succession plans for years. Although Ugandan laws prohibit serving military officers from engaging in politics, General Kainerugaba has been active in political discourse and even formed a pressure group that has been mobilizing political support for him.
Critics of the government have expressed concerns that this appointment could be a step towards establishing a hereditary rule in the country. However, supporters of General Kainerugaba argue that he offers an opportunity for a peaceful transfer of power in Uganda, potentially the first since the country’s independence in 1962.
As Uganda prepares for its next presidential election in early 2026, with President Museveni widely expected to seek re-election, the appointment of General Kainerugaba as CDF will undoubtedly continue to fuel discussions about the future leadership of the nation.
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