Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces who is also the first son, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has took to his official social media accounts to announce that he will not contest in 2026 Presidential elections.
Gen Muhoozi on Saturday morning announced on his X (formerly twitter) that he will not be on the ballot paper in 2026.
In two @mkainerugaba tweets, the Chief of Defence Forces of UPDF said he will endorse President Yoweri Museveni and instead focus on improving the army.
“I would like to announce that I will not be on the ballot paper in 2026. Almighty God told me to focus on His Army first. So, I fully endorse President Yoweri Museveni in the next elections,” he said.
“For me NOTHING on this earth is more Holier than UPDF! So, I cannot think of a greater honour than being in UPDF. It is Holy Ground!! Godbless Holy UPDF and Sacred Uganda forever!!!”
His announcement comes days after his father, who is the current Country’s President announced and rallied people in Luweero during his 80th Birthday that he is coming back to seek for their mandate in 2026.
It should be remembered that in March 2023, the First Son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba slammed the old generation of leaders to which his father, Yoweri Museveni and uncle, Gen Salim Saleh belong, for reportedly dominating the young generation as he declared his presidential ambitions.
The then 48-year-old serving military officer and presidential advisor special operations indicated that he’s had enough waiting for his turn to lead Uganda as time seems to be fast-running out for him.
Muhoozi’s sudden u-turn will stun his fans, some of whom were already mobilising for his presidency.
The 2026 polls are expected to attract the participation of singer-turned politician Robert Kyagulanyi alias Bobi Wine and Dr Kizza Besigye among others. Muhoozi seemed to suggest he would continue serving as army chief.