Otafiire, a long-serving historical figure in the NRM, has previously indicated that leadership transitions should not be predetermined by family lineage — a view some interpret as indirect resistance to dynastic succession.
Gen. Kahinda Otafiire has publicly stated that although he respects Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba as an individual and as the son of Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, he does not support him becoming Uganda’s next president. Otafiire’s remarks have ignited strong reactions from Muhoozi’s supporters.
Speaking on 91.2 Crooze FM over the weekend, Otafiire was unequivocal about his position.
“I do not hate Kainerugaba as a person. I simply do not want him as President of Uganda. I respect and love Kainerugaba as the son of Museveni, but I do not support Kainerugaba as president, and I make that position openly and without apology,” he said.
His comments quickly drew backlash on social media, particularly from backers of Muhoozi, who has been widely discussed as a potential successor to President Museveni despite not formally declaring a presidential bid.
Mwesigye Franks, a prominent supporter and enthusiast of Muhoozi’s PLU movement, accused Otafiire of being evasive and challenged him to clearly explain the basis of his opposition.
“It is dishonest to claim you love Gen. Muhoozi while actively opposing his presidential ambition. If that love is genuine, then clearly state the reasons,” Mwesigye wrote on his X handle, arguing that the choice of leadership ultimately belongs to voters, not individual politicians.
He further emphasized that Muhoozi, like any Ugandan citizen, has a constitutional right to contest for the presidency.
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Another loyalist, Jonah Ruhiima, dismissed Otafiire’s remarks as merely personal opinion and questioned why a serving minister would focus on a candidacy that has not been officially declared.
“It sounds like envy and hate when a full minister and MP makes it his job to talk about Gen MK’s presidency when he has not even declared,” Ruhiima commented.
A third supporter, Ssebunya, suggested Otafiire’s stance could stem from fear of potential anti-corruption measures under a hypothetical Muhoozi administration — a claim he did not substantiate.
Old Fault Lines Within the NRM
The public exchange has revived speculation about underlying tensions within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) over succession politics.
Otafiire, a long-serving historical figure in the NRM, has previously indicated that leadership transitions should not be predetermined by family lineage — a view some interpret as indirect resistance to dynastic succession.
Muhoozi, who currently serves as Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), commands a vocal, youth-leaning support base that has actively mobilized in favor of a possible presidential run. Though he has yet to formally announce his candidacy, endorsements and grassroot campaigns by supporters have kept succession debates alive within Uganda’s political landscape.
Political observers say the latest exchange could signal deeper divisions within NRM ranks as questions about post-Museveni leadership continue to surface.
Commentator Sitati Wasilwa suggested the disagreement may offer an early glimpse into potential realignments among historical party figures.
“Perhaps an early glimpse of what awaits Uganda in light of Museveni’s succession. Museveni’s past and present comrades are likely to coalesce around their preferred successor rather than Muhoozi,” he remarked, hinting at possible internal contests ahead.
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