Kampala — Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has indicated that he expects to become Uganda’s next Vice President, telling the current office holder to prepare to vacate the position.
In a series of posts on X on Monday evening, Muhoozi said he believed enough time had been spent being diplomatic about his expected elevation.
“About being Vice President. I think we have been diplomatic enough. Whoever is in that office should prepare to hand it over soon,” he posted.
He went on to give an indication of how government would operate under his leadership, saying he intended to introduce military-style management to address what he considers inefficiency in public administration.
“As Vice President, the government will operate on military terms. There will be no more inefficiency,” Muhoozi wrote.
The army chief also praised Members of Parliament for supporting the security forces, saying efforts by their opponents to influence Parliament would not succeed.
“No enemy manoeuvres will succeed in our parliament,” he said.
He separately turned his attention to young people affiliated with the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), the political pressure group he chairs, describing their political journey as one tied to the country’s future.
“Our young people have a tryst with destiny. They shall not miss that rendezvous with history,” he posted.
His comments add to a growing series of public statements suggesting a possible transition from military leadership into active politics.
Earlier this month, Muhoozi announced that he was preparing to leave the position of Chief of Defence Forces, saying he had completed the assignments he believed had been given to him. He also spoke of handing over the office and spending more time pursuing his Christian faith.
However, he later indicated that he would remain in the military position for at least another year.
His latest remarks have revived attention on Vice President Jessica Alupo, whom he previously referenced in a post about a woman named Jessica who had allegedly been occupying his seat for too long.
Alupo, a retired UPDF major, has served as Vice President since 2021. There has been no official communication from the government indicating that she is preparing to leave office.
Under the Constitution, the President appoints the Vice President, subject to parliamentary approval. Muhoozi’s comments therefore do not amount to an official appointment.
The army chief has also repeatedly spoken about his intention to contest the presidency in 2031, making his latest remarks particularly significant amid speculation about his political future.
By Monday night, neither the State House nor the Vice President’s office had confirmed any impending change in the country’s top leadership.
