Uganda's military chief consolidates power, signaling a de-facto succession

General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who commands Uganda's armed forces and chairs the Patriotic League of Uganda, announced the closure of two major independent outlets, the Daily Monitor and NTV Uganda, claiming his father’s blessing and ordering soldiers to block the premises. He has repeatedly used social media to threaten opposition figures, including Bobi Wine, and to publicise the detention of critics like lawyer Erias Lukwago, who was shown blindfolded before reappearing in police custody.

Kainerugaba's actions have extended beyond media suppression to the arrest and intimidation of opposition activists and lawyers, reflecting a pattern of military involvement in civilian affairs that bypasses constitutional safeguards. Analysts describe the development as an informal power handoff from President Yoweri Museveni, who has ruled since 1986, to his 52-year-old son, though Kainerugaba lacks his father's long-standing legitimacy and regional patronage networks.

The United Nations and Western diplomats have voiced concern, yet key partners continue to engage with Kainerugaba as Uganda remains a crucial contributor to regional security missions. The evolving dynamic raises uncertainty about Uganda's future governance structure and the stability of its international alliances.