Political theorist Yusuf Sserunkuma has sharply criticised the composition of President Yoweri Museveni’s newly appointed cabinet, arguing that the government continues to overlook highly qualified professionals in favour of political loyalists.
In a series of statements reacting to the latest appointments, Sserunkuma contrasted Uganda’s approach with that of other countries, where top talent is actively recruited into key decision-making roles.
He argued that in Uganda, individuals perceived to be aligned with the opposition are often excluded, despite their expertise and experience.
Sserunkuma listed several figures he described as among the country’s “best brains,” including legal expert Abdu Katuntu, veteran cooperative leader Nathan Nandala Mafabi, and former army commander Mugisha Muntu.
Others he mentioned were governance activist Sarah Bireete, journalist Andrew Mwenda, media executive Robert Kabushenga, and opposition figure Winnie Kiiza.
According to Sserunkuma, these individuals possess the credentials and experience necessary to contribute meaningfully to national policy but remain outside government structures.
He argued that appointments instead appear to reward political loyalty, personal relationships, and long-standing alliances.
“National decision-making platforms are increasingly becoming spaces for old comrades, their children, and loyalists,” he said, describing the trend as detrimental to effective governance.
The political theorist further questioned the exclusion of prominent legal and academic figures from key national roles. He cited Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, legislators Medard Ssegona and Asuman Basalirwa, as well as scholars such as Joe Oloka-Onyango, Zahara Nampewo, and Busingye Kabumba.
Sserunkuma argued that such professionals would be better suited to handle complex national challenges, particularly Uganda’s engagement with foreign capital and international economic systems.
He also pointed to the absence of economists and policy experts like Fred Muhumuza and public health specialist Catherine Kyobutungi from top decision-making roles.
He maintained that Uganda’s governance challenges are closely tied to how the country negotiates with external economic actors, suggesting that this requires highly skilled technocrats rather than politically aligned appointees.
The remarks come amid ongoing debate over the structure and effectiveness of Museveni’s administration, with critics calling for broader inclusion of technocrats and independent thinkers in government.