Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has declared his intention to contest for the country’s presidency in 2031, putting the issue of succession to his father, President Yoweri Museveni, firmly back in the spotlight.
Kainerugaba, 52, announced his ambition in a series of posts on X, five years ahead of the scheduled presidential election.
“I will stand for the highest office in the land in 2031. And we will win by the grace of Almighty God,” he said.
The military chief also expressed confidence that his father’s support would give him a sweeping victory at the polls.
“With my great father, Mzee’s, support I will get 90% in the elections in 2031,” Kainerugaba said.
The declaration marks a renewed push by Kainerugaba to succeed Museveni, after he previously indicated an intention to contest the January election but later withdrew.
He instead played a prominent role in his father’s campaign as Museveni sought another term in office.
Museveni, 81, has ruled Uganda since 1986 under the National Resistance Movement (NRM), making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
Kainerugaba, who heads the Patriotic League of Uganda, has for years been regarded as one of the leading figures with presidential ambitions and a potential successor to his father.
His political activities and outspoken presence on social media have also generated controversy. He has previously made threatening posts concerning opposition leader Bobi Wine, who left Uganda for the United States earlier this year, citing fears for his safety.
Another prominent opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, has been detained since 2024 and faces trial on treason-related charges.
Museveni’s government has also been accused of torture, kidnappings and arbitrary detention of opposition figures and critics. Authorities have denied the allegations.
The January election, during which Kainerugaba backed his father, was similarly overshadowed by opposition allegations of a crackdown on political opponents and restrictions on internet access.
Despite the growing speculation over Uganda’s political succession, the government has yet to confirm whether Museveni plans to seek another term.
Government spokesman Alan Kasujja told Reuters that Museveni and the ruling party would decide on the matter when the time comes.
With Kainerugaba now openly declaring his 2031 ambition, the succession question has once again taken centre stage in Uganda’s political debate, even as Museveni remains firmly at the helm of the NRM.
