Military Son Muhoozi Kainerugaba Poised to Take Over
By Sello Masilo
Kampala –
Uganda’s long-time leader, 81-year-old President Yoweri Museveni, has kicked off his seventh term in office, a move that cements his nearly four-decade grip on power while sparking fresh talks about a family dynasty taking root in the East African nation.
With his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, now firmly in charge of the military and seen as the top pick to step into his father’s shoes, critics worry that Uganda’s future is being shaped more by bloodlines than by the will of the people.
This latest chapter follows elections in January 2026, where Museveni secured another win amid claims of unfair play and crackdowns on opposition voices.
As he promises more stability and growth, his son’s rising influence – marked by bold statements and a push to silence rivals – hints at a smooth handover that could keep the Museveni name in charge for years to come.
For many Ugandans, this raises big questions about democracy in a country that has seen both progress and pain under one man’s rule.
Museveni’s Long Road to Power
Yoweri Museveni first took control in 1986 after leading a rebel group that toppled the government in a bush war. Back then, at his swearing-in, he promised to serve just one four-year term and bring fresh hope to a nation torn by conflict.
Fast forward to today, and he has outlasted that pledge by far, becoming one of Africa’s longest-serving presidents.
Under his watch, Uganda has grown its economy, improved roads and schools, and played a key role in regional peace efforts. Supporters credit him with ending years of chaos and building stability.
But others point to a darker side: reports of political oppression, arrests of critics, and changes to the constitution that scrapped age limits, letting him run again at 81.
His seventh term began with a grand ceremony in Kampala, where he spoke of continuing the fight against poverty and boosting trade. Yet, behind the scenes, health concerns and his age have fuelled whispers about who comes next.
Museveni has dodged direct talk of stepping down, but his actions suggest he is grooming a successor close to home.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba: The Heir Apparent
At the heart of Uganda’s shifting politics stands Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Museveni’s 51-year-old son and a top general in the Uganda People’s Defence Force.
Known for his sharp tongue and social media outbursts, Muhoozi has built a strong base within the military and among loyalists, positioning himself as the natural next leader.
In recent years, he has tightened his hold by promoting allies to key spots and pushing out those who question him.
As army chief since 2022, he has led operations against rebels and shaped foreign ties, including tense relations with neighbours like Rwanda.
His tough stance has won fans in the security forces but drawn fire for threats against opposition figures, like vowing to “hunt down” critics such as musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine.
Muhoozi’s path to power has not been smooth. In 2022, he sparked uproar by tweeting about invading Kenya, forcing his father to step in and apologise.
Despite such slips, Museveni has backed him, even calling him a future leader in public speeches.
Analysts see this as part of a careful plan to hand over control without chaos, much like dynasties in other African nations.
His influence extends beyond the barracks. Muhoozi runs youth groups and charity events that boost his image as a caring leader. He has also used online platforms to rally support, sharing views on everything from politics to sports.
This mix of military might and public charm makes him a strong contender, but it worries those who fear a father-son handover could stifle real change.
Controversies and Criticisms
The idea of a Museveni family dynasty has split opinions in Uganda. Opposition leaders like Bobi Wine, who ran against the president in 2021 and faced house arrest, call it a grab for endless power.
They argue that elections are rigged, with voters scared off by soldiers at polls and media shut down for critical stories.
Human rights groups highlight a pattern of silencing voices. In the lead-up to the 2026 vote, arrests of activists and journalists rose, with some facing charges for spreading “fake news.”
Museveni’s government denies this, saying it protects peace in a region hit by unrest.
Muhoozi himself has faced backlash for his words. In one outburst, he threatened to kill Bobi Wine, later brushing it off as a joke. Such talk has led to calls for probes, but none have stuck.
Critics say this shows how the family bends rules to stay on top, while supporters see it as strong leadership needed to keep Uganda safe.
On the global stage, Museveni’s long rule has mixed reviews. Western donors praise economic gains but cut aid over rights issues.
Uganda’s role in Somalia peacekeeping wins points, but ties to Russia and China raise eyebrows. As Muhoozi steps up, his views on these alliances could shape the country’s path.
What Lies Ahead for Uganda
With Museveni now in his seventh term, the focus turns to how long he stays and what a handover looks like. He has hinted at retiring but only when the time is right.
For Muhoozi, building a civilian image could be key, perhaps through a run for office in 2031.
Ugandans hope for a peaceful shift, avoiding the violence seen in other successions. Youth, making up most of the population, want jobs and fairness, not more of the same.
Economic woes like high youth joblessness and debt could test the new term.
As dynasty talks grow, calls for open elections and term limits echo louder.
Museveni’s legacy – from rebel hero to elder statesman – hangs in the balance, while Muhoozi’s rise signals a new era. For now, Uganda watches closely, hoping the next chapter brings progress for all.
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