Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Uganda Monitor
Published on 2024-03-21 21:23:36
President Museveni has made a significant announcement by appointing his son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This move comes as a part of a cabinet reshuffle that saw Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi being appointed as the Minister of State for trade.
Gen Muhoozi has previously served as his father’s senior presidential advisor in charge of special operations. The decision to appoint him as the new CDF marks a significant shift in leadership within the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
In a ceremony on February 17, President Museveni presented the UPDF Establishment 2021 to Gen Mbadi, delegating command, control, and administration of all elements of the UPDF to him. This was in accordance with the powers bestowed upon the President under the 1995 Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and the UPDF Act of 2005.
In the latest round of appointments, announced on Thursday evening, President Museveni named Lt Gen Samuel Okiding as the new deputy CDF, replacing Gen Peter Elwelu who has been appointed as one of his senior advisors. Additionally, Maj Gen Jackson Bakasumba has been appointed as the new Joint Chief of Staff, taking over from Maj Gen Leopold Eric Kyanda, who has been appointed as Defence attaché. Brig Gen David Mugisha, the commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC), has been promoted to the rank of Major General, while Asaph Nyakyikuru, the Commando Brigade commander, has been promoted to the rank of Brigadier General.
These changes in leadership come at a critical time for the UPDF as it navigates various security challenges both domestically and in the region. The appointment of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba as the new CDF has raised eyebrows and sparked discussions about the implications of having a close relative of the President in such a key military position.
Critics have raised concerns about potential nepotism and the impact it may have on the UPDF’s structure and decision-making processes. However, supporters of Gen Muhoozi argue that his experience and qualifications make him a suitable candidate for the role.
As the new Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba will be tasked with overseeing the strategic direction of the UPDF and ensuring its readiness to respond to security threats. His appointment marks a new chapter in the leadership of the Ugandan military and will be closely watched by observers both within the country and abroad.
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