KAMPALA: The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has intensified the political debate surrounding the race for Speaker of Uganda’s 12th Parliament after issuing strongly worded statements seen by many as indirect criticism of current Speaker Anita Among amid growing public scrutiny over lavish lifestyles and corruption allegations.
In a post shared on X, Muhoozi declared that all PLU and PLU-leaning MPs would support whoever President Yoweri Museveni endorses for Speaker, signaling the growing influence of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) in shaping the next parliamentary leadership.
“We shall support Mzee’s position,” Muhoozi stated, in remarks that have already triggered intense speculation within ruling NRM circles over the fate of the current Speaker.
In another post that has since gone viral, Muhoozi appeared to take a swipe at extravagant spending among top government officials, saying despite being Museveni’s son for 52 years, he has never sat in a Rolls Royce and does not think the President has either.
The remarks have been widely interpreted by political observers as an indirect jab at Anita Among, who has recently faced criticism from sections of the public and opposition figures over reports of luxury acquisitions and alleged misuse of public funds.
Muhoozi further escalated the debate by openly criticizing corruption and excessive expenditure by Parliament, insisting that leaders must prioritize service delivery over personal enrichment.
“Our job is to serve Ugandans not ourselves. I cannot support corruption,” Muhoozi posted, adding that the country “will not be taken by thieves.”
In another statement, Muhoozi said PLU believes in reducing money allocated to Parliament and redirecting it towards improving the welfare of ordinary Ugandans living in poor conditions.
“PLU believes in the reduction of ANY monies sent to Parliament. We believe in redirecting that money to the millions of Ugandans living in shacks, with no water or power,” he wrote.
The statements have intensified political pressure ahead of the contest for Speaker of the 12th Parliament, with several figures quietly mobilizing support within the ruling party.
Among those positioning themselves is Persis Namuganza, the State Minister for Urban Development and Bukono MP, who has repeatedly criticized what she describes as rampant corruption and arrogance within Parliament leadership.
Political analysts now believe Muhoozi’s comments could open political space for alternative candidates such as Namuganza, especially among MPs seeking change and reforms in the next Parliament.
The debate has also emerged against the backdrop of President Museveni’s recent public pronouncements emphasizing zero tolerance to corruption within government institutions.
