General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has made headlines again by reactivating his X account just a week after announcing his departure. On January 9, 2025, he claimed to be stepping back to focus on military duties, citing divine guidance.
However, just a week after the world was astonished with his exuberant return declaring that he was back on his X handle “I’m back!”, he posted upon reactivation on January 16, 2025. His return was marked by provocative tweets, including directives to security forces regarding opposition figures and threats against a U.S. diplomat. This marks his second return to the platform in three years, continuing his controversial online presence that often stirs political debate.
Kainerugaba’s previous posts included threats against political figures and provocative statements regarding military actions, which have often sparked diplomatic tensions. His abrupt comeback has raised questions about his political ambitions, as many speculate he is being groomed for leadership. Despite his brief hiatus, he quickly regained followers and continued to engage in contentious discussions, reaffirming his significant role in Uganda’s political landscape.
Kainerugaba’s social media presence has been characterized by bold claims and threats, often drawing criticism for violating military protocols. His recent comments about beheading opposition leader Bobi Wine sparked significant backlash, although he later attempted to downplay them as jokes. Despite these controversies, many speculate about his political ambitions as a potential successor to his father.
- In 2025 General Muhoozi threatened to behead opposition leader Bobi Wine, sparking national outrage and diplomatic tensions.
- In 2022 still the same general claimed that the UPDF could capture Nairobi in two weeks which led to his reassignment and an official apology from President Museveni.
- In 2024 in made interventionist Remarks: Recently, he warned of attacking foreign nationals in Eastern DR Congo, prompting protests from both Sudan and DRC.
Despite these controversies, President Museveni has defended him, asserting the right of his son to express his political opinions.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba, born on April 24, 1974, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, is a prominent Ugandan military general and the eldest son of President Yoweri Museveni. His family lived in exile due to political turmoil in Uganda, returning after Museveni’s rise to power in 1986.
Kainerugaba was educated at various institutions, including the University of Nottingham.
He joined the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) in 1999 and quickly ascended the ranks, becoming a lieutenant general by 2019. He served as commander of the Special Forces Command and was appointed Chief of Defence Forces in March 2024. Kainerugaba has been linked to controversial military operations and has faced allegations of human rights abuses.
His political ambitions have sparked speculation about his potential succession of Museveni. In 2023, he announced plans to run for president in the upcoming elections. Kainerugaba’s outspoken nature on social media has often stirred political debates in Uganda.