General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Chief of Defence Forces and son of long-serving President Yoweri Museveni, has officially declared his intention to contest for the presidency in Uganda’s 2031 general elections.
The declaration was formally launched in Kampala by the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a political pressure group led by Gen. Muhoozi. Speaking at the PLU headquarters, Executive Secretary Hon. David Kabanda confirmed that the campaign—themed “Muhoozi Gwe Akimala”—has commenced with the goal of gathering 19 million signatures nationwide to support his candidacy.
According to PLU officials, Gen. Muhoozi’s 2031 bid has been fully sanctioned by his father, President Yoweri Museveni, positioning the 52-year-old general as a clear successor in the country’s long-term political trajectory.
Under Section 99 of the UPDF Act, Gen. Muhoozi will be required to officially resign or retire from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces before formally entering partisan elective politics.
Having previously stepped back from running in the 2026 race, Gen. Muhoozi’s confirmed focus on 2031 clarifies his political timeline, sparking intense discussion among opposition parties and political analysts regarding Uganda’s power transition.
Gen. Muhoozi expressed high confidence via social media, stating that with the backing of his father and supporters, he aims to secure a decisive victory in the 2031 polls. Further details on his formal transition out of the military and campaign schedule are expected in the coming months.
