Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has reignited debate about Uganda’s political leadership after making fresh remarks suggesting that he wants to take over the office of Vice President currently occupied by Jessica Alupo.
In a post shared on his X account, Muhoozi appeared to send a direct message to those currently holding the country’s second-highest political office, saying that enough diplomacy had been exercised and that preparations should begin for a change.
“About being Vice President. I think we have been diplomatic enough. Whoever is in that office should prepare to hand it over soon,” Muhoozi posted.
His statement has attracted attention because it comes amid ongoing discussions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) about Uganda’s leadership beyond 2031 and his possible political future. The comments have also revived questions about whether he could move from his military position into the civilian government.
Muhoozi went further in another statement, suggesting that if he became Vice President, government operations would be conducted differently, with a stronger emphasis on military-style discipline and efficiency. His remarks have generated further discussion about the relationship between military leadership and civilian administration.
The latest comments also come after reports that President Yoweri Museveni presented a succession document to NRM Central Executive Committee members, asking them to examine Muhoozi’s suitability as a possible successor when the time comes for a leadership transition.
However, Muhoozi’s political ambitions have reportedly encountered differing opinions within the party, with some senior officials supporting his possible rise while others have raised concerns about the political ambitions of a serving military officer.
For now, Jessica Alupo remains Uganda’s Vice President, and there has been no official announcement from President Museveni regarding a possible change in the office. Muhoozi’s latest remarks have nevertheless placed the Vice Presidency back in the centre of the country’s ongoing political debate.
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