Museveni’s Quiet Plan: Signs Show Son Muhoozi Is Being Prepared for Power

Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni might not say it openly, but many believe he is quietly preparing his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, to take over the country’s top job.

Over the last few years, Muhoozi’s fast rise in the military and public statements have raised big questions. In March 2024, Muhoozi became Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces—the highest position in the army. Before that, he was commander of land forces. For many people, this is clear proof that Museveni is grooming his son for leadership.

Muhoozi himself hasn’t been shy about his presidential ambitions. On multiple occasions, he posted on social media that he will one day become President of Uganda. He even said the best way to thank his mother is by becoming president.

In January 2023, he tweeted, “Fortune favours the sons of God! I will be President of Uganda one day.” A few months earlier, he also wrote, “The only way I can repay my great mother is by being President of Uganda! And I shall do it!”

Muhoozi also believes Uganda should always be led by a military man. In 2024, he boldly stated that no civilian will rule Uganda after his father. “The security forces will not allow it,” he posted. “The next leader must be a soldier or policeman.”

To boost his support, Muhoozi formed the Patriotic League of Uganda. Although it's not an official political party, it looks like a tool to grow his influence among young people and soldiers—without leaving the army.

Muhoozi’s political style has also caused drama. In 2022, he tweeted that he would invade Kenya. That got him removed from his army post but just months later, he was promoted to full general. This move surprised many, showing how much power he still holds.

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Despite all these signs, both Museveni and Muhoozi deny having any succession plan. In late 2024, Muhoozi claimed he wouldn’t run in the 2026 election and even asked Ugandans to support his father again. Museveni also told Kenya’s KTN News that any future leader must be chosen by the ruling National Resistance Movement party not by him or his family.

Still, political analysts believe the strategy is clear. Museveni might want to stay president while Muhoozi controls the military and builds a political base. That way, the father-son duo can secure control over future elections and leadership.

Uganda goes to the polls in 2026. Museveni has been in power since 1986. While he remains silent about his son’s future, many believe the groundwork is already being laid for General Muhoozi Kainerugaba to take over one day.