The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) Secretary General and Kasambya County MP David Kabanda has dismissed speculation surrounding the absence of Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba from his 52nd birthday run held on Sunday at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds.
The high-profile charity run, which attracted thousands of participants including senior government officials, military officers, and supporters, was widely expected to be led by Gen. Muhoozi himself. However, his absence during the main event triggered online debate and political commentary.
In a statement addressing the matter, Kabanda rejected claims circulating on social media suggesting that the General deliberately skipped the event to avoid being photographed with certain government officials.
“I have noted comments and remarks on social media some from senior PLU leaders suggesting that Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba did not attend the Birthday Run to avoid certain Govt officials seeking photographs with him. This is false. The CDF was unable to attend due to other important engagements,” Kabanda said.
His remarks come amid heightened public interest in the annual event, which has grown into a major political and social gathering in Kampala.
The run, held under the theme “Run for Charity, Run for Hope,” is part of Muhoozi’s birthday celebrations and is used to raise funds for charitable causes, including support for vulnerable children.
Despite the General’s absence, the event proceeded with significant participation. Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa flagged off the run on behalf of the organisers, while senior military officers and political figures joined thousands of participants who filled Kololo early in the morning.
Organisers reported that the event maintained its strong turnout, with running kits sold to participants and proceeds directed toward charity initiatives.
Security and logistical arrangements were tightly managed, with traffic diversions and controlled access to the venue.
Kabanda’s clarification appears aimed at quelling speculation that had begun to circulate both online and within political circles regarding the circumstances of Muhoozi’s absence.
The PLU leadership has consistently promoted the birthday run as a charitable initiative rather than a purely political gathering, though it continues to attract significant political attention due to Muhoozi’s senior position in Uganda’s military and his growing public profile.