Concerns are mounting over growing public praise for Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, amid a wave of controversial political statements and arrests linked to his recent online remarks.
Journalist Kungu Al-Mahad Adam has sharply criticised what he describes as increasing sycophancy among supporters of the military leader, questioning whether loyalty and praise have become informal benchmarks for those in positions of influence.
His remarks come at a time when Gen. Muhoozi has, over the past several days, drawn criticism for a series of provocative posts on X, including references to abducting and arresting opposition figures.
On Monday, Kampala Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago was arrested, later detained in a military facility, and subsequently presented in court where he faces charges of misprision of treason.
The developments have further intensified debate over the role of the military in civilian political matters.
Gen. Muhoozi has also publicly vowed to arrest the Leader of Opposition Joel Ssenyonyi, alongside former Kira Municipality MP and vocal government critic Ssemujju Nganda, statements that have triggered widespread political reactions.
In his response, Kungu questioned the culture emerging around such actions, saying:
“Is praise-singing now among the key performance indicators of those appointed?”
He added that the current climate reflects deeper governance concerns.
“What we are witnessing is hypocrisy, sycophancy, mockery, and blind loyalty masquerading as leadership. So disgusting.”
Kungu further warned that the trend risks normalising unchecked adulation at the expense of accountability, arguing that strong leadership is often defined by restraint rather than public approval.
“What is even more shocking is that those being praised seem content dancing to these melodies.”
Drawing comparisons with global leadership standards, he noted that effective leaders typically avoid excessive praise, preferring instead to surround themselves with principled advisers, encourage criticism, and create space for competence and independent thought.
“Great leaders around the world are often wary of excessive adulation,” he said.