Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has announced plans to run for president in 2031, positioning himself as a potential successor to his father, President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled the country since 1986.
Kainerugaba, 52, made the declaration in a series of posts on social media, saying he would seek the country’s highest office and expected to win with the support of his father.
“I will stand for the highest office in the land in 2031. And we will win by the grace of Almighty God,” Kainerugaba said.
“With my great father, Mzee’s, support I will get 90% in the elections in 2031,” he added, using an honorific for Museveni, who is 81.
Kainerugaba, who heads the Patriotic League of Uganda, has long been viewed as a possible successor to his father. He had previously said he would contest the January presidential election but later withdrew his bid.
He also played a key role in Museveni’s re-election campaign, with critics accusing him of ordering a crackdown on opposition supporters and an internet shutdown during the election period.
Kainerugaba is known for provocative posts on social media, including threats against leading opposition figure Bobi Wine.
Museveni, who leads the ruling National Resistance Movement, has faced longstanding criticism over alleged human rights abuses, including torture, abductions and arbitrary detention. The government has denied the allegations.
Bobi Wine fled to the United States earlier this year, saying he feared for his life, while veteran opposition politician Kizza Besigye has been detained since 2024 and is on trial for treason.
Asked whether Museveni would seek another term, government spokesman Alan Kasujja told Reuters that the president and his party would make the decision when the time comes.
Reuters
