Minister Otafiire Declares Opposition to Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Presidential Bid, Igniting Succession Debate
Kampala, Uganda – Internal Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire has publicly declared his opposition to Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba succeeding his father, President Yoweri Museveni, sparking fresh debate over the country’s political future.
Speaking openly in western Uganda, the bush war veteran and longtime legislator stated that leadership must be based on merit rather than family ties, directly challenging the ambitions of the President’s son and current Chief of Defence Forces.
“I do not hate Kainerugaba as a person. I simply do not want him as President of Uganda. I respect and love Kainerugaba as the son of Museveni, but I do not support Kainerugaba as president, and I make that position openly and without apology,” Otafiire said in remarks captured in a video clip.
The minister’s forthright statement—which included the assertion that “Muhoozi will never rule this country”—has drawn sharp reactions across the political spectrum. Supporters of Kainerugaba accused Otafiire of gatekeeping and envy, with some demanding he provide clear justification for his opposition rather than hiding behind vague statements.
Others, however, praised the minister’s candor amid growing tensions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) over the unresolved question of succession.
The debate highlights deepening divides in the party following Museveni’s recent seventh-term election victory. While Kainerugaba has yet to formally declare his intentions for the 2031 presidential race, his prominent role and active social media presence have fueled speculation that he is being positioned as the eventual successor.
Otafiire’s public opposition represents one of the most direct challenges from within the NRM’s old guard to the prospect of a dynastic transition, underscoring the delicate balancing act facing the party as it navigates the post-Museveni future.
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