Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, has disclosed the role played by Muhoozi Kainerugaba in his elevation to Cabinet, offering fresh insight into the dynamics behind recent government appointments.
Speaking during an interview on Sanyuka TV on Tuesday, June 2, Balaam said Gen. Muhoozi directly supported his nomination, describing him as a key figure in his political journey.
“I credit Gen. Muhoozi for who I am today. I applaud him because he seconded my name,” Balaam stated.
His remarks come days after his appointment to head the Ministry of Local Government, a critical docket responsible for overseeing decentralized governance and service delivery structures across Uganda.
Balaam’s promotion from his previous role as Minister of State for Youth and Children Affairs marks a significant step in his political career.
At the same time, the minister emphasized that his appointment aligns with the broader agenda of Yoweri Museveni, who he said is focused on tackling poverty and improving livelihoods.
“President Museveni wants us to work for the people; he wants people who are going to fight poverty,” Balaam noted during the interview.
The minister outlined his priorities, stressing the importance of accountability and adherence to the law within government institutions.
He said his leadership approach would center on ensuring that all departments under his ministry operate within the legal framework.
“My responsibility as a minister, or even as other ministers, is to ensure that the departments we lead operate lawfully under the law,” he added.
Balaam’s acknowledgment of Gen. Muhoozi’s role is likely to draw attention to the growing influence of the General in Uganda’s political space.
In recent years, Muhoozi has built a visible public profile, with analysts pointing to his expanding role in both governance and political mobilization.
While some observers view such endorsements as part of internal political processes, others argue they raise questions about the balance between formal constitutional procedures and informal power networks.
Nonetheless, Balaam maintained a focus on his mandate, reiterating his commitment to delivering results for citizens through strengthened local governance systems.