Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has once again sparked political debate after publicly suggesting that he expects to become the country’s next Vice President. In a series of posts on X, Muhoozi told the person currently occupying the office to prepare to hand it over, raising fresh questions about his political ambitions.
The army chief said enough time had been spent being diplomatic about the matter and suggested that the transition should happen soon. “Whoever is in that office should prepare to hand it over soon,” Muhoozi posted, in remarks widely understood to be directed at Vice President Jessica Alupo.
Muhoozi went further to explain how he believes government would operate if he became Vice President. He promised to introduce military-style management into public administration, arguing that this would put an end to inefficiency in government institutions.
“As Vice President, the government will operate on military terms. There will be no more inefficiency,” he wrote. His statement has attracted attention because it suggests a leadership approach that would place strong emphasis on military-style discipline and management.
The CDF also commented on Parliament, praising legislators for what he described as their support for the security forces. He warned that attempts by their opponents to influence Parliament would not succeed, declaring that no enemy manoeuvres would succeed in the institution.
He also directed attention to young people associated with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), the political pressure group he chairs. Muhoozi described their political journey as important to the country’s future, saying they had a historic role to play and should not miss their opportunity.
His latest remarks come after earlier statements in which he suggested that he was preparing to leave the position of Chief of Defence Forces. He later changed his position, indicating that he would remain in the military office for at least another year. He has also repeatedly spoken about his intention to contest the presidency in 2031.
Meanwhile, Jessica Alupo, a retired UPDF major, has served as Vice President since 2021, and there has been no official announcement that she is leaving the position. Under Uganda’s Constitution, the President appoints the Vice President subject to parliamentary approval, meaning Muhoozi’s social media statements do not amount to an official appointment or confirmation of a leadership change.
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