Son of Uganda's president says he will stand for top job in 2031

Uganda's military chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the 52-year-old son of President Yoweri Museveni, has announced his intention to run for president in 2031. Kainerugaba, known for his controversial online remarks, including threats against opposition leader Bobi Wine, played a significant role in his father's re-election in January by ordering a crackdown on dissent and shutting down the internet.

He claims he will secure a 90% victory in 2031 with his father's backing, using the title of "Mzee," which means "elder" in Swahili. Kainerugaba leads the Patriotic League of Uganda, a political pressure group, although he previously withdrew his candidacy from the last election. President Museveni, who has governed Uganda since 1986, has faced accusations of human rights violations from critics, though the government denies these claims.

Bobi Wine, the main opposition leader, has fled to the United States, fearing for his life, while another opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, is currently in prison and faces treason charges. When asked about Museveni's potential for another term, government spokesman Alan Kasujja stated that the decision would be made by the president and his party at the appropriate time.