The lieutenant general son of Uganda’s president Muhoozi Kainerugaba says he has retired from the military, which is widely seen as a move to prepare the ground for a potential run for the presidency in 2026.
Critics of President Yoweri Museveni say Kainerugaba who has been in the military for more than 20 years, was rushed through the ranks by his father and many Ugandans believe Kainerugaba is being groomed to succeed Museveni.
Museveni who has ruled the east African country since 1986, has repeatedly denied accusations he wanted to hand over power to his son, although Kainerugaba’s supporters say he has a right to seek the country’s presidency like any other citizen.
Supporters of Kainerugaba, have been pressing a campaign on social media and elsewhere for him to stand in 2026, although he has not publicly declared any intention to run for office. Ugandan law forbids soldiers from participating in politics.
Human rights groups, Ugandan opposition and government critics have long accused his father of using the military to keep himself in power through intimidating and jailing his opponents.
Museveni was re-elected in January last year, beating pop star-turned-politician Bobi Wine. Wine rejected the result, alleging widespread irregularities.
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