Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has made fresh remarks about Uganda’s vice presidency, telling whoever currently occupies the office to prepare to hand it over soon as he openly speaks about his anticipated rise to the country’s second-highest political position.
In a series of controversial statements, Muhoozi suggested that the period of remaining diplomatic about his political ambitions was over. He indicated that he expected changes in the country’s leadership structure and made remarks that appeared to signal his interest in becoming Vice President after his father, President Yoweri Museveni, leaves office.
The outspoken military chief also declared that what he described as the country’s gynocracy was coming to an end, suggesting that the era of female leadership in certain senior government positions could soon change. His comments have attracted attention because Uganda’s current Vice President, Jessica Alupo, is a woman who has held the position since 2021.
Muhoozi did not stop at discussing the future of the office but also questioned Alupo’s political loyalty, bringing up the 2016 presidential elections in which former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi challenged Museveni. The CDF alleged that Alupo supported Mbabazi during that election period and worked against his father’s political interests, adding that such actions had not been forgotten.
According to Muhoozi, Alupo’s alleged political conduct during the 2016 elections remains an issue that could affect how she is remembered. He maintained that those who believe the matter has been forgotten are mistaken, suggesting that political loyalty and past decisions remain important considerations in his assessment of senior government officials.
The army chief also raised allegations concerning Alupo’s supposed support for retired Gen Peter Elwelu, whose recent arrest and detention have generated considerable political attention. Muhoozi suggested that if claims linking the Vice President to Elwelu’s alleged political and military activities were established, she would be required to account for her involvement. These remain allegations and have not been independently established.
Muhoozi further suggested that under his anticipated leadership, government operations would adopt a more military-style approach, which he believes would improve efficiency and discipline. His remarks have consequently raised questions about the kind of administrative changes he would pursue if he eventually assumes a senior executive position in government.
The statements have placed the future of the vice presidency and Jessica Alupo’s political position back in the national conversation. However, Muhoozi’s comments do not constitute an official announcement of a leadership change, and any appointment to the vice presidency would have to follow Uganda’s constitutional procedures. Alupo had not publicly responded to the latest remarks at the time of publication.
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