Uganda is entering a period in which the question of political succession can no longer be treated as distant. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s declaration that he intends to seek the presidency in 2031 has brought that conversation firmly into the national arena. As the Department for Critical Thinking and Alternative Analysis at the Karamoja Anti-Corruption Coalition, we also feel that we need to contribute to this discussion.
Here, we begin with a 1995 study by Brett, Edward, titled “Neutralising the Use of Force in Uganda…” Brett argued that “bullets rather than ballots have dominated politics in Uganda since independence, where two governments have been removed by coups, one by a foreign invasion, and another by an armed rebellion.” From there, we go on to argue that the PLU, headed by General Muhoozi, represents more than a possible change of leadership.
To the supporters of Muhoozi, they see in him an opportunity for generational renewal, continuity, and a new political direction. Through the Patriotic League of Uganda, his supporters have already begun nationwide mobilisation and endorsement efforts, presenting him as a figure capable of carrying forward what they regard as the achievements of the current political order while introducing new energy and ideas.
The argument for Muhoozi’s presidency therefore rests partly on the question of transition. After decades under President Yoweri Museveni, Uganda will eventually have to confront the challenge of transferring political leadership. Supporters argue that a prepared successor could make such a transition orderly rather than uncertain. As some Ugandans have argued, “we need to see a peaceful transition of power, not war or chaos.”
Additionally, as Ernest Wamba-dia-Wamba cited in “Africa in Search of a New Mode of Politics” in 1994, argued, “Africa: We are living in a period of political crisis.” Therefore, if Muhoozi takes over power, this will be a historical moment for Uganda and Africa in general.
As a Department for Critical Thinking, we know that the journey from hope to reality is a long one. From here, we wish Muhoozi Kainerugaba well in his bid for the presidency of Uganda.
Ayub Mukisa, PhD, writes from the Department for Critical Thinking and Alternative Analysis at the Karamoja Anti-Corruption Coalition (KACC).
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