KAMPALA – A Promise for Diplomacy and Discipline
General Salim Saleh—a name synonymous with the National Resistance Army’s (NRA) history and the present-day Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF)—has taken on a task both personal and political. He has vowed to address the behavior of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, his nephew and the army chief, who is also the progeny of President Yoweri Museveni.
The ascent of General Muhoozi within the UPDF has not been without controversy. Skeptics frequently draw connections between his rapid rise and his familial ties to the presidency. This speculation swirls with even more intensity when Muhoozi takes to social media—his recent remarks causing considerable discomfort among diplomats.
The European Union (EU) diplomats have voiced their concerns about the potential impact of Muhoozi’s statements on Uganda’s international image. They argue that his outbursts are more than mere words; they pose a tangible threat to diplomatic relations.
In the latest development, Muhoozi issued a provocative statement threatening to detain diplomats for engaging with officials of Bobi Wine’s party. Ambassador Jan Sadek, speaking on behalf of the EU delegation, told Saleh that such behavior isn’t just a nuisance—it’s a genuine diplomatic headache.
“He threatened to take us to his base. I think it has created some security issues. While we do not expect the UPDF to come and kick us out, we’re concerned about what his followers may take into their own hands,” Sadek expressed with palpable concern.
Saleh, stepping into the role of a mediator, addressed these concerns with a mixture of reassurance and humor. Describing Muhoozi as ‘funny,’ he suggested that his behavior reflects a broader transformation within the UPDF. The days of the NRA are long past; today’s UPDF is a modern institution, yet it wrestles with nuanced challenges.
“The CDF,” Saleh mused, referring to Muhoozi, “is an interesting character. He’s unique because he’s the only CDF who didn’t originate from the Uganda Army, UNLA, or NRA. He’s a product of the post-1995 UPDF—a different breed altogether.” He added, “They’re educated and well-trained; sometimes, I can’t entirely fathom their ways.”
He encouraged diplomats to perceive Muhoozi’s statements as personal rather than official governmental positions. “You’re studying him as a character,” Saleh advised. Reflecting on the modern military’s evolution, he continued, “Once upon a time, we doubted educated soldiers’ place in the army. Today, the top command is replete with degrees, master’s, and PhDs. But I’ve come to wonder if intellect brings its own set of challenges.”
Ending on a note of assurance, Saleh pledged, “I want to assure you, we shall manage that one for you. We shall get him on board and sort it out if he has offended you.”
A story unfurls of a family balancing power, diplomacy, and evolution.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International–Monitoring
