For now, Muhoozi’s latest statement underscores his belief that his rivalry with Lukwago and Besigye is part of a wider political battle that, in his view, is still unfolding.
Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has stirred fresh political controversy after declaring that his long-running conflict with former Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago and opposition veteran Dr. Kizza Besigye is nearing a decisive conclusion.
The remarks came as public concern continued to grow over Lukwago’s wellbeing following his reported abduction and detention, with supporters and political observers questioning the circumstances surrounding his arrest.
Muhoozi made the comments on X while responding to an appeal from one of his supporters, who urged him to show compassion toward Lukwago because of concerns about the opposition politician’s health.
The supporter, identified as Tumukunde TT, described himself as a loyal backer of the army chief and praised his leadership before making a heartfelt request for mercy.
In his message, Tumukunde argued that despite political differences, Lukwago had often been carrying out his professional responsibilities as a lawyer representing clients. He also noted that after recently interacting with Lukwago in court, he believed the opposition figure’s health was deteriorating and appealed to Muhoozi to intervene.
“We do not wish to see his health worsen,” Tumukunde wrote, adding that many young supporters of Muhoozi would welcome an act of compassion.
Responding to the appeal, Muhoozi thanked the supporter for his respectful tone but used the opportunity to make a pointed political statement.
“Tumukunde, thank you for your message and civility. Advise Lukwago to learn from you. He has been fighting me with Besigye for many decades. We are going to finish it now,” Muhoozi posted.
The response quickly attracted attention across Uganda’s political spectrum, with many interpreting it as evidence of a deeply entrenched rivalry between the military commander and two of the country’s most prominent opposition figures.
Rather than addressing concerns about Lukwago’s health directly, Muhoozi framed the issue within the context of a longstanding political struggle involving both Lukwago and Besigye.
The mention of Besigye added further weight to the statement. The four-time presidential candidate has spent more than two decades challenging President Yoweri Museveni’s administration and has repeatedly accused state institutions of targeting government critics.
Lukwago, on the other hand, has earned a reputation as one of the ruling establishment’s most outspoken opponents, both during his tenure as Kampala Lord Mayor and through his legal work defending opposition activists and detainees.
As Muhoozi’s political influence continues to grow, his social media posts frequently shape national debate and generate strong reactions from supporters and critics alike.
Opposition supporters are likely to view the latest remarks as confirmation that the dispute involving Lukwago has evolved beyond legal and security considerations into a broader political confrontation. Meanwhile, Muhoozi’s supporters may interpret the comments as a sign of his readiness to openly challenge long-standing political adversaries.
With reactions continuing to pour in, public attention remains focused on Lukwago’s condition and whether calls for leniency — including from some of Muhoozi’s own supporters — could have any impact on future developments.
For now, Muhoozi’s latest statement underscores his belief that his rivalry with Lukwago and Besigye is part of a wider political battle that, in his view, is still unfolding.
