Makerere University scholar and political theorist Yusuf Sserunkuma has weighed in on the recent wave of military arrests targeting prominent Ugandan figures, arguing that the country’s power dynamics remain firmly centered around President Yoweri Museveni rather than opposition voices.
His remarks come amid growing concern over the detention of lawyer Erias Lukwago, former minister Miria Matembe, veteran journalist Timothy Kalyegira, and activist Sarah Bireete.
The arrests, reportedly carried out by military operatives, have sparked debate about the state of civil liberties and political dissent in Uganda.
In a statement, Sserunkuma suggested that General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, widely seen as a central figure in Uganda’s evolving political landscape, may be misdirecting his focus.
According to the scholar, the individuals currently being targeted do not pose the primary challenge to power.
“It is not Miria Matembe, Timothy Kalyegira, Erias Lukwago or Sarah Bireete. Not even Bobi Wine,” Sserunkuma stated. “But his father and generous benefactor, Yoweri Museveni.”
Sserunkuma argued that Museveni, who has ruled Uganda for nearly four decades, remains the most significant force shaping both the state and its opposition.
He further claimed that the president has historically weakened opposition groups, thereby consolidating his influence over the political system.
The political theorist warned that continued focus on critics and dissenting voices could have unintended consequences.
He cautioned that internal tensions within the military establishment, if left unchecked, could pose a more immediate risk than civilian opposition figures.
“I wish he focused his energies on this man. Otherwise, he might wake to a junior lieutenant taking matters into their hands,” Sserunkuma added, in what appears to be a reference to potential instability within the armed forces.
The comments have added a new dimension to the ongoing discourse surrounding the arrests, shifting attention from the detained individuals to broader questions about succession, authority, and control within Uganda’s leadership structure.