By A routine budget review meeting by Parliament’s Defence Committee spiraled into chaos as members sought explanations for controversial statements posted on X (formerly Twitter) by Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces and Senior Presidential Advisor on Special Operations.
The meeting, convened to scrutinize budget estimates presented by State Minister for Defence Jacob Oboth Oboth and senior army officers, was derailed when Shadow Cabinet Minister and MP for Makindye East, Derrick Nyeko, raised concerns about Gen Muhoozi’s absence. Nyeko argued that the general’s presence was crucial to address inflammatory comments he had made online.
The remarks in question included alarming threats to “behead” National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, and to hang opposition figure Dr. Kizza Besigye. These posts have drawn widespread condemnation and raised fears of escalating political tensions in the country.
Nyeko told the committee:
“These statements are not only reckless but could also incite violence and undermine national stability. Gen Muhoozi, as a senior military officer, must explain how such threats align with the values and discipline of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).”
Nyeko’s comments sparked a fiery debate among committee members. Several MPs criticized the absence of Gen Muhoozi, asserting that his direct response to the allegations was necessary to preserve the credibility of the defence ministry. Others questioned whether the ministry had mechanisms to regulate the conduct of senior officers on social media platforms.
Committee Chairperson Rosemary Nyakikongoro attempted to restore order but was overwhelmed as MPs demanded assurances that the defence ministry would address the matter. Many argued that such incendiary statements could damage Uganda’s international reputation and undermine public trust in the UPDF.
State Minister Oboth Oboth urged calm, assuring members that the ministry would investigate the issue and take appropriate action. He stated:
“The UPDF is guided by strict codes of conduct, and we do not condone any actions that jeopardize national security or public confidence in our forces.”
However, his assurances did little to placate committee members, who called for stronger measures to hold Gen Muhoozi accountable.
The session was ultimately suspended after the debate reached an impasse. No new date has been set for the meeting, but committee members have strongly hinted that Gen Muhoozi will be summoned to provide clarity on his social media activity and its implications for national security.
Gen Muhoozi, who has been a polarizing figure in Ugandan politics, has faced criticism for his outspoken nature on social media. His controversial posts have sparked debates about the role of military officers in political discourse and the potential consequences of unchecked rhetoric.
Political analysts warn that failure to address such issues could erode public confidence in Uganda’s security apparatus and deepen political divisions. As the Defence Committee prepares to reconvene, the spotlight remains firmly on how the government will manage the fallout from Gen Muhoozi’s contentious remarks.
