Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni’s son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has formally declared his intention to run for president in 2031. Kainerugaba, who currently serves as the country’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), made the announcement through the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) during a meeting with supporters in Kampala.
David Kabanda, head of the PLU chairman’s office, told hundreds of supporters in Nakasero that Museveni had endorsed his son’s presidential ambition.
“I’m here to inform you that Gen Muhoozi has instructed me to inform you that he is going to run for President of Uganda in 2031 and beyond,” Kabanda said.
The announcement was met with applause, with supporters chanting “Yes, our messenger” in approval. Kabanda emphasised that the endorsement had been sanctioned by Museveni himself, leaving no room for doubt about the president’s support.
Mobilisation Strategy Across Districts
Kabanda said the PLU would organise endorsement rallies across Uganda’s 146 districts to secure signatures for Kainerugaba’s candidacy. He explained that members would first seek approval from Kainerugaba before proceeding with mobilisation.
“Once their requests are approved by the General, members from each district will be required to collect signatures from people who will endorse him,” he said.
He added that the credentials of endorsers would be compiled into a book and presented to Kainerugaba, demonstrating widespread grassroots support. Kabanda expressed confidence that the PLU’s existing membership base could help deliver victory in 2031.
Kabanda recalled that in March 2025, Kainerugaba had asked supporters to back Museveni and the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) in the 2026 elections.
He said the new announcement marked the beginning of a succession plan. “The journey has started now,” Kabanda declared.
Museveni has ruled Uganda since seizing power in January 1986, making him one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders.
He was sworn in for a seventh term in May 2026, extending his tenure beyond 40 years. Kainerugaba’s declaration signals the possibility of a dynastic succession in Uganda’s political landscape.
Supporters’ Reaction And Political Context
Supporters at the Kampala gathering welcomed the announcement enthusiastically, chanting slogans and pledging loyalty. Kabanda urged Ugandans to reciprocate the support they had received from Museveni and the PLU by backing Kainerugaba’s presidential ambition.
He said the PLU would coordinate orderly endorsement rallies to ensure compliance with electoral requirements and strengthen Kainerugaba’s campaign. The announcement comes amid growing speculation about Uganda’s political future and the role of Museveni’s family in shaping it.
Kainerugaba’s declaration sets the stage for Uganda’s 2031 presidential election, where he is expected to be a major contender.
His military background and close ties to Museveni position him as a formidable candidate. However, his bid also raises questions about political succession, democratic competition, and the future of Uganda’s governance.
