Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of the country’s veteran leader Yoweri Museveni, announced last weekend he would not be vying for the presidency in 2026. Instead, Kainerugaba called on his followers to rally behind his father, who has been at the helm of Uganda for nearly four decades.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni
Though Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has yet to officially declare his candidacy for the upcoming election, many speculate he will seek another term. Kainerugaba confirmed his decision in a post on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “I will not be running in 2026 and fully support President Yoweri Museveni in the next elections.”
While Kainerugaba currently serves as a key figure in Uganda’s military, he is often viewed as a likely successor to his father. However, he has also attracted attention for his provocative remarks, including a 2022 tweet that led to President Museveni issuing an apology to Kenya after his son suggested a military invasion of the neighboring country.
Critics of the long-serving president have repeatedly raised concerns about his leadership. Many accuse Museveni of fostering a dynastic political system, a claim he has refuted. Despite being 80 years old and having amended the constitution twice to remain in office, Museveni’s grip on power remains strong. His tenure has been marked by accusations of using state security to suppress dissent, allegations he consistently denies. Among those opposing him is musician-turned-politician Bobi Wine, a vocal critic of Museveni’s regime, who accuses the president of using intimidation and violence to silence opposition.
