Uganda’s Army Chief Faces Criticism for Threats and Claims of Divine Descent
Uganda’s military chief, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has sparked international concern following a series of inflammatory social media posts, including threats to castrate opposition leader Bobi Wine and claims of descent from Jesus Christ. The general, who is the son of long-serving President Yoweri Museveni, is seen by analysts as being groomed for succession.
The controversy erupted after the January presidential election, which handed Museveni, 81, a seventh term with over 70% of the vote. Opposition candidate Bobi Wine, who received 24%, rejected the results as “fake,” alleging widespread ballot-stuffing.
In response, Gen Kainerugaba took to X, formerly Twitter, threatening Wine and stating that at least 30 people were killed and 2,000 detained in the election’s aftermath. One deleted post threatened to have Wine’s testicles removed, while another declared the opposition leader was wanted “dead or alive.”
The general later apologised for a claim that the US helped Wine escape, admitting he was given “wrong information,” and announced he would reduce his social media activity.
The “Unholy Trinity”
Analysts describe a powerful alliance, dubbed the “unholy trinity,” ruling Uganda: President Museveni (the Father), his son Gen Kainerugaba (the Son), and the president’s brother and adviser, Salim Saleh (the Spirit). This perception of a divine right to rule was echoed last year by parliamentary speaker Anita Among, who urged voters to back “God the Father, Museveni” and “God the Son, MK [Muhoozi Kainerugaba].”
Gen Kainerugaba fuelled this narrative himself this month, posting, “I fear no one on this planet because my bloodline is from Jesus Christ.” The tweet was later deleted.
A History of Controversy
Known as the “tweeting general,” Kainerugaba has a long record of provocative online statements. In 2022, he threatened to invade neighbouring Kenya, forcing his father to apologise to Kenyan President William Ruto. He often downplays his remarks as “musings” not to be taken seriously.
However, his actions have tangible consequences. He played a role in the internet blackout around the election, according to an ally cited by Reuters. The UN noted the poll occurred in an environment of “widespread repression and intimidation.”
Military Rise and Human Rights Concerns
The general leads the Special Forces Command (SFC), an elite unit accused of abductions and torture of opposition figures. He has admitted to holding one of Wine’s bodyguards in his “basement,” publishing a photo of the detained man.
A friend of the general, speaking anonymously, defended him as “incredibly loyal” and a potential “incredible successor,” citing his experience in security—Uganda’s “number-one priority.”
With Museveni likely entering his final term, attention is turning to succession. Analysts like Nicodemus Minde of the Institute for Security Studies believe Kainerugaba’s online outbursts are part of a bid to position himself as heir, albeit through “deliberate provocations” that win little public favour.
The political dynasty shows signs of continuing: Kainerugaba’s son, Ruhamya, has recently joined the army.
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