Uganda’s military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has announced that he plans to run for president in 2031, raising the possibility that he could seek to succeed his father, President Yoweri Museveni.
Kainerugaba, 52, made the announcement in a series of posts on X, declaring that he would contest what he described as “the highest office in the land” in the 2031 election.
He also expressed confidence that he could secure a major victory, saying he expected to win 90 per cent of the vote with the support of his father, whom he referred to as “Mzee.”
Long-standing succession speculation
Kainerugaba has long been viewed as a potential successor to Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986. He currently heads the Patriotic League of Uganda, a political pressure group, and has previously expressed interest in seeking the presidency.
He had indicated that he would contest the 2026 election but later withdrew from the race.
Museveni, 81, secured another term in the January 2026 presidential election, extending his nearly four-decade tenure in power. It remains unclear whether he intends to seek another term in 2031.
Ugandan government spokesman Alan Kasujja said the decision on Museveni’s future candidacy would be made by the president and the ruling National Resistance Movement when the time comes.
Succession debate intensifies
Kainerugaba’s declaration is likely to intensify discussion over Uganda’s political succession and the growing influence of the president’s son.
The announcement comes against a backdrop of political tensions in Uganda, including disputes between the government and opposition groups.
With the 2031 election still several years away, Kainerugaba’s declaration could nevertheless mark the beginning of a major political campaign over who will lead Uganda after Museveni.
