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

Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni, has announced his intention to run for the presidency in 2031. The 52-year-old military chief has been seen as a potential successor to his aging father and is known for his outspoken social media presence, which has included threats against opposition leader Bobi Wine.

Kainerugaba played a crucial role in his father's re-election in January by implementing a crackdown on opponents and shutting down the internet. In a series of posts on X, he stated his intention to run for the highest office in the land in 2031, attributing his success to the support of his father, Mzee Museveni. Kainerugaba, who heads the Patriotic League of Uganda, had previously announced his candidacy for the last election in January but later withdrew.

President Museveni, who has ruled Uganda since 1986, has faced criticism for alleged human rights abuses, including torture, kidnappings, and arbitrary detentions, though the government denies these claims. Bobi Wine, the main opposition leader, fled to the United States earlier this year, claiming fear for his life, while another opposition figure, Kizza Besigye, has been in prison since 2024 and is currently on trial for treason.

When asked about the possibility of Museveni seeking another term, government spokesman Alan Kasujja stated that the decision would be made by the president and his ruling party at the appropriate time.