Uganda President Museveni appoints son head of military

Ugandan President, Yoweri Museveni has appointed his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as the head of the country’s military.

Kainerugaba, 48, is widely believed to be his father’s potential successor and has previously sparked controversy with his statements.

A Defence Ministry statement confirmed his new role, adding that he replaces Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, who has been reassigned as a junior minister.

This appointment comes after Museveni removed his son from his position as commander of Uganda’s land forces in 2022, following Kainerugaba’s provocative remarks on social media.

Kainerugaba had in the past drawn attention by threatening to invade neighbouring Kenya and expressing support for Russian President Vladimir Putin amid the conflict in Ukraine.

Kainerugaba’s vocal presence on social media has raised eyebrows, especially considering the country’s laws that prohibit serving military officers from engaging in politics.

Despite these legal constraints, Kainerugaba has been actively involved in political discourse, frequently engaging in exchanges with opposition figures.

With his father, Museveni, nearing four decades in power, speculation regarding a succession plan has increased, with Kainerugaba often positioned as a potential successor.