Museveni Intervenes in Cabinet Tensions, Orders Otafiire to Publicly Clarify Position on Muhoozi
President directs ministers to support UPDF chief amid growing internal disputes
President Yoweri Museveni has stepped in to quell rising tensions within his Cabinet involving his son, Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, directing Internal Affairs Minister Kahinda Otafiire to issue a public statement clarifying his position following exchanges with the army chief.
According to sources familiar with Monday’s Cabinet meeting, the President raised the matter himself and made it clear from the outset that the issue was not open for debate. Museveni reportedly asked Cabinet members who initiates confrontations with the CDF, specifically pointing to Otafiire as one of the ministers who has been involved in exchanges with Muhoozi.
ICT and National Guidance Minister Chris Baryomunsi was also identified as having recently joined the exchanges.
President Defends CDF’s Military Path
During the meeting, Museveni defended his son’s military career, explaining that Muhoozi had initially wanted to pursue business rather than join the army before eventually entering military service.
When given an opportunity to respond, Otafiire denied starting any fights with the CDF or engaging in any confrontation with him. He reportedly told the meeting that he has no personal problem with Muhoozi.
The President then instructed the minister to release a public statement clarifying his position to avoid further speculation about a rift within government.
Museveni also encouraged Cabinet members to work with Muhoozi to better the country rather than engage in internal disputes.
UPDF’s Expanding Role Recognized
The President reportedly highlighted the Uganda People’s Defence Forces’ significant contributions to both national and regional stability, noting that such efforts deserve recognition and support from government leaders.
The UPDF continues to play a key role in regional peacekeeping and security operations, particularly in Somalia through the African Union peace mission, and in the Democratic Republic of Congo through joint operations targeting rebel groups threatening regional stability.
Beyond external missions, the army has taken on development roles within Uganda, including road construction, engineering works, health outreach programmes, and other national activities supporting government service delivery.
Sources indicate Otafiire is expected to release a statement addressing the matter in the coming days.
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