Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a strong warning to individuals falsely claiming connections to the First Family, saying those found impersonating or misleading the public will face arrest.
In a strongly worded statement, Muhoozi revealed plans to introduce a special hotline number that Ugandans can use to verify anyone claiming to be a member of the President’s extended family.
“As for our rather large extended First Family, I will give you a hotline number for anybody claiming to be part of us,” Muhoozi announced, signaling a crackdown on imposters and fraudsters.
The First Son said the verification system is intended to protect citizens from individuals who allegedly exploit the First Family’s name for personal gain, influence, intimidation, or financial benefits.
“Please call to verify any individual. If they are liars, they should be arrested,” Muhoozi warned, making it clear that security agencies will take the matter seriously.
His remarks have sparked widespread discussion across social media, where claims of connections to powerful political families are often used to gain favors, influence government decisions, or intimidate ordinary citizens.
Observers say Muhoozi’s statement reflects growing concern within government circles about people falsely using the First Family’s identity to access privileges and manipulate public officials.
In Uganda, the phrase “First Family” commonly refers to President Yoweri Museveni, First Lady Janet Museveni, their children, and close relatives connected to the country’s top leadership.
Over the years, several individuals have allegedly used fake claims of family ties to senior government officials to secure contracts, influence appointments, avoid accountability, or extort money from unsuspecting victims.
Muhoozi’s announcement suggests that the government is now moving toward tighter control and verification of individuals presenting themselves as relatives or insiders connected to State House.
Political analysts believe the proposed hotline could become a major tool in exposing imposters who thrive on fear, political confusion, and the public’s respect for authority.
The CDF did not immediately reveal when the hotline would officially become operational, but his comments suggest preparations are already underway.
Muhoozi emphasized that genuine members of the First Family have no reason to fear the verification exercise, insisting that the move only targets dishonest individuals abusing the family name.
He also hinted that some people have been damaging the reputation of the First Family through fraudulent activities carried out while pretending to have powerful political backing.
“This nonsense must stop,” Muhoozi reportedly told close associates, according to sources familiar with the matter. “People cannot continue deceiving Ugandans using our name.”
The warning comes at a time when Gen Muhoozi continues expanding his political and public influence through the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) and increased engagement in national political debates.
Supporters of the move argue that many fake “State House connections” have for years terrorized businesspeople and local leaders by pretending to have direct access to powerful figures.
Critics, however, say the proposed arrests could raise concerns if not handled carefully, especially in cases where individuals may casually associate themselves with political families without criminal intent.
Still, Muhoozi appears determined to crack down on what he sees as misuse of the First Family’s identity and reputation. He insists that ordinary Ugandans deserve protection from fraudsters hiding behind powerful names.
For now, many citizens are waiting to see how the hotline system will operate and whether security agencies will indeed move against individuals falsely presenting themselves as part of Uganda’s influential First Family.
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