Political debate has intensified following President Yoweri Museveni’s swearing-in ceremony at Kololo Grounds on Tuesday, with entrepreneur and Philantropist Jamie Namulema raising concerns about what she describes as a quiet shift in Uganda’s power structure.
In remarks issued after the event, Namulema questioned whether the long-serving president remains fully in control of the country’s political direction, pointing instead to the growing influence of key figures within his inner circle.
“I’ve seen enough of Ssevo to know there’s no way that old man is still the one fully steering this country,” she said. “The real power seems to be shifting quietly between Muhoozi, Saleh and Rwabogo while the public is fed the ‘simple lifestyle’ image like it’s still 1986.”
Her comments come at a time when General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Senior Presidential Advisor Gen. Salim Saleh, and businessman Odrek Rwabogo have increasingly featured in Uganda’s political and administrative space, often linked to key state decisions.
Namulema argued that the growing influence of the trio reflects a broader pattern suggesting long-term planning within the ruling establishment.
“The scary part? These guys move with the confidence of people who already see Uganda as a long-term family project, not a temporary government,” she said.
She also pointed to what she described as the centralisation of institutions around a narrow circle of individuals.
“That’s why every institution suddenly feels like it’s orbiting around the same circle of names,” she posted on X.
Her remarks are likely to fuel ongoing discussions about succession politics in Uganda, a subject that has remained sensitive as President Museveni, in power since 1986, continues to extend his leadership.
Namulema maintained that current developments point to a leadership transition strategy already in motion.
“Love them or hate them, one thing is clear: they’re not preparing to leave power anytime soon… they’re preparing succession.”