In Uganda, where political legacies are often carefully nurtured, Gen.Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has long been a subject of deliberations as far as the long term leader’s succession is concerned. While many had once viewed him as a sure bet successor to his father, his recent decision to publicly declare that he would not run for the presidency in the coming 2026 general election caught many by surprise. Instead, he endorsed his father’s continued leadership, leaving questions about his political ambitions unanswered.
Despite his powerful position in the military, many Ugandans seem not to see him as a natural leader. As the proverb goes, [The fool speaks with his mouth but thinks with his heart], and Muhoozi’s social media presence, often full of bold but at times questionable statements, reveals a man still struggling to find his footing as a leader. His words on platforms like X continue to stir mixed reactions, raising debates about his suitability to take on a more prominent role his father has held for nearly four decades in crafting Uganda’s future after the turbulent times under Amin Dada and Apollo Milton Obote.
His social media presence is seen as a direct reflection of his public persona which is unpredictable, bold, and often controversial. As the CDF, his posts have ranged from comments on military matters, politics, to foreign policy, but his tweets frequently stir more questions than they answer. His followers are sometimes left wondering whether his words reflect genuine strategic insight or the bluster of someone trying to assert authority. [The mouth of a man is his destiny], and the proverb rings true, and in Muhoozi’s case, his words seem to shape not just his own image but that of the government he represents.
Though some of his posts have aimed to project strength and leadership, many Ugandans are continuously seeing him as someone whose intellectual depth necessary to steer the nation through its challenges is debatable. [A wise man’s heart guides his mouth], yet Muhoozi’s social media often lacks the nuance and foresight expected of a high ranking officer. His tweets, while frequent, can sometimes appear impulsive or misguided, earning him the reputation of someone who is not ready to wield real power.
A significant aspect of Muhoozi’s online presence in recent months has been his ongoing attacks on Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine. Referring to him as “Kabobi,” Muhoozi has launched a series of provocative statements aimed at discrediting Bobi Wine and his political career. This personal attack on Uganda’s most prominent opposition leader has sparked widespread debate. While some of Muhoozi’s supporters view these comments as a form of political rivalry, many others see them as unnecessary, even childish. His Twitter theatrics on the subject of women has also not gone without reprimand from the eagle eye of the public. Recently, he hinted at securing a TV show with UBC so the public can see : what a handsome man looks like
“ He has often painted himself as the prince who owns all the women in Uganda, and perhaps the whole world. [What the fool does in the morning, the wise man will do in the evening], and this reflects how these attacks seem to undermine the credibility of a leader who should instead focus on building national unity. The continuous online clash between Muhoozi and Bobi Wine only adds fuel to Uganda’s already polarized political atmosphere.
Despite his critics, there are those who believe that Muhoozi’s social media presence brings a form of transparency. In a country where the political elite allegedly operates behind closed doors, his open, unfiltered thoughts provide a glimpse into his views on national and international issues. [The wise man does not wait for an invitation to speak, but he speaks when the time is right], and Muhoozi’s active online presence gives him an opportunity to engage directly with the public, bypassing traditional media filters.
His posts can, at times, promote discussions about Uganda’s role in global affairs. For example, when Muhoozi tweeted in favor of improving relations between Uganda and Rwanda, many saw this as a step toward resolving longstanding tensions between the two countries. [A well watered tree bears fruit], and in this case, his willingness to engage on social media may have helped soften relations in the region.
However, [the fool’s tongue is long enough to cut his own throat]. This captures the essence of Muhoozi’s most frequent criticism. His bold and often reckless statements have brought Uganda into diplomatic turmoil. His 2022 tweet about capturing Nairobi in two weeks sent shockwaves through East Africa, creating tensions between Uganda and Kenya. This led to an official apology from President Museveni, who was forced to reign in his son’s rhetoric. [The tongue has no bones, but it is strong enough to break a heart], and Muhoozi’s words, once spoken, cannot be easily taken back.
Another controversial moment came when Muhoozi made threatening remarks toward Sudan, suggesting military action if Ugandan forces were attacked. These comments resulted in Sudan demanding an apology from Uganda. [A single spark can set a forest on fire], and his words sparked diplomatic flames that threatened to burn bridges with neighboring nations.
Moreover, his comments about foreign nationals working in Eastern DR Congo, threatening violence against them, raised alarms across the region. His comments have been widely criticized as dangerous and irresponsible. Many Ugandans have questioned his fitness for leadership, especially given his tendency to speak without considering the broader consequences of his statements.
Muhoozi’s ongoing personal attacks on Bobi Wine also raise concerns. These verbal jabs, while intended to undermine the opposition leader, only serve to deepen the political divide in Uganda. [A single bird does not make a spring], and Muhoozi’s attacks against Bobi Wine reflect a broader political climate in which division, rather than unity, is becoming the norm. These constant online spats not only distract from meaningful national discourse but also reflect poorly on Muhoozi’s maturity and leadership potential.
The last few months have seen General Muhoozi’s online activities continue to stir controversy. In October 2024, he posted about expelling the U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, accusing the diplomat of interfering in the country’s internal affairs. [When you throw a stone into the water, it will ripple far and wide], and Muhoozi’s harsh words against the U.S. contributed to growing diplomatic tensions between Uganda and the United States. Such comments reflect his lack of caution, because [a man who throws stones should not hide his hands].
Muhoozi’s attempts to silence critics, including journalists, have also caused concern. [A good leader listens more than they speak], but Muhoozi’s response to criticism often seems to involve harsh retorts rather than productive dialogue. His threats against the press in December 2024 left many wondering whether Uganda is becoming less tolerant of free speech. This further tarnishes his reputation, both at home and abroad.
The government has been forced to intervene on several occasions, trying to mitigate the damage caused by his social media posts. [A wise man knows when to keep quiet, for silence often speaks louder than words]. President Museveni and other officials have publicly distanced themselves from Muhoozi’s more controversial statements, and the government has often been compelled to apologize on his behalf. However, the damage done by his words remains, as [the bird that flies away has no home]. Once a public figure like Muhoozi makes such bold statements, it is difficult to erase the lasting impression they leave.
The Ugandan public remains divided on Muhoozi. While some view him as an influencial figure in the country, many question his intellectual capacity for political leadership. [The wise man listens before he speaks], and many feel that Muhoozi has yet to demonstrate the depth of thought and diplomacy required of a national leader. His social media activity does not inspire confidence in his ability to handle the complexities of leading a nation. [A bad workman blames his tools], and in this case, Muhoozi’s use of social media as a tool of communication often does more harm than good.
Gen.Muhoozi’s social media activity has done much to shape his public image, but not in ways that benefit his political future. [Words are like arrows, once they leave the bow, they can’t be retrieved], and the general’s words often carry consequences that cannot be undone. His recent decision not to run for the presidency may have tempered some of the speculation about his future, but his online behavior continues to raise doubts about his readiness for higher office. While his supporters may view him as a fresh face in Ugandan politics, Muhoozi’s impulsive use of social media may ultimately limit his potential as a future president.
Looking ahead, General Muhoozi needs to embrace a more thoughtful and disciplined approach to his online presence. Social media, as a tool of leadership, demands responsibility, and he must recognize its power to influence not just public opinion, but also diplomatic relations. [Even the best warrior needs a strategist], and Muhoozi should consult with communication experts to refine his approach and ensure that his messages are more measured and constructive.
Rather than resorting to personal attacks, such as those aimed at Bobi Wine, Muhoozi could use social media as a platform for fostering unity and positive political dialogue. [The tongue can conceal the truth, but the eyes never]. By focusing on more substantial political issues and engaging with the public in a mature manner, he could shift the narrative away from divisive rhetoric.
Moreover, Muhoozi must recognize the need for open-mindedness and dialogue. [The wise man listens more than he speaks], and engaging in meaningful conversations with his critics and supporters alike, rather than engaging in petty online spats, could help build trust and credibility both domestically and internationally. By doing so, Muhoozi would demonstrate that he is ready for the kind of leadership that transcends mere online bravado.
If Muhoozi adopts a more strategic and diplomatic approach, he could potentially evolve into a more respected figure. [The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, but the second best time is now]. It is not too late for him to adjust his course and become a leader who inspires, rather than divides.
The writer is a seasoned Journalist and non partisan Social-Political Commentator
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