Political theorist Yusuf Sserunkuma has sparked fresh debate over Uganda’s leadership dynamics, arguing that General Muhoozi Kainerugaba may already be exercising de facto control over state affairs in Kampala.
In an assessment, Sserunkuma pointed to a series of recent political developments as evidence of a shifting power structure.
Among them is the dramatic fall of former Speaker Anita Annet Among, contrasted with the retention of her deputy Thomas Tayebwa.
He also cited the emergence and endorsement of current Speaker Jacob M. Oboth-Oboth as part of what he described as a broader consolidation of influence.
Sserunkuma further referenced the controversial abduction of Kampala’s former Lord Mayor Erias Lukwago, who is also legal counsel to opposition figure Kizza Besigye. He argued that such incidents signal a tightening grip on both political and legal institutions.
According to the analyst, these developments suggest that President Yoweri Museveni and his brother Salim Saleh may have, albeit reluctantly, ceded significant operational control to Muhoozi.
He described the two ಹಿರಿಯ leaders as hesitant on formal succession decisions, a vacuum he claims Muhoozi has moved swiftly to fill.
“The indicators are increasingly visible,” Sserunkuma noted, arguing that power is no longer defined strictly by formal office but by influence over key state decisions and actors.
The remarks come amid ongoing speculation about Uganda’s political transition, with Muhoozi’s rising public profile and assertive posture drawing both support and concern across the political spectrum.