Kampala, Uganda: Kiira Municipality Member of Parliament Hon. Ibrahim Ssemujju Nganda has expressed fresh concerns over the state of Uganda’s leadership under President Yoweri Museveni, warning that the Head of State’s advanced age could further erode democratic governance and entrench family control over national affairs.
Speaking during a media interview, Ssemujju said President Museveni, who is now 80 years old and seeking another term after four decades in power, no longer maintains the full grip he once held on government operations.
“Things have actually changed. Museveni is now very old, and old people are managed,” Ssemujju said. “In the past, Museveni used to be in charge, but now we’re going to see more brutality from JAT and SFC, commanded by Gen Muhoozi, who thinks he is managing his father and their estate.”
The legislator claimed that as Museveni’s physical and mental capacity wanes, his son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, is steadily consolidating control over security institutions and key state functions.
Ssemujju warned that the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JAT) and the elite Special Forces Command (SFC) were likely to play a bigger role in political affairs, which he said could expose Ugandans to increased intimidation and repression.
He further argued that the First Family views Uganda as personal property, with succession plans already taking shape behind the scenes. “The family of Museveni thinks that Uganda is their estate and they are going to manage it as a family to keep it moving,” he added.
President Museveni has repeatedly defended his long stay in power, insisting it has brought stability, development, and transformation to Uganda. Supporters of the ruling NRM party argue that his experience is needed to navigate complex security and economic challenges.
However, opposition figures like Ssemujju maintain that the gradual handover of influence to Museveni’s son marks a dangerous drift toward dynastic rule, undermining the constitutional order and aspirations for democratic transition.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
