KAMPALA, Uganda, Jul 1 — Uganda’s military chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has stirred fresh controversy after declaring his support for President William Ruto, in a move that has sparked intense debate over Uganda’s role in Kenya’s internal affairs.
Muhoozi, who is also the son of Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, posted early Wednesday on his X (formerly Twitter) account that he would side with Ruto if political tensions in Kenya escalate further.
“The only Kenyan I support at this point is Afande Ruto. If he needs any support from UPDF, we shall provide it!” he stated.
His remarks have ignited a social media storm, with many Kenyans and Ugandans questioning the appropriateness and timing of his unsolicited comments — which came amid widespread anti-government protests, a strained executive, and a country still reeling from the aftermath of police crackdowns on demonstrators.
Foreign interference of Kenya’s politics
Muhoozi’s message was viewed by critics as an alarming signal of foreign interference in Kenya’s domestic politics, while others dismissed it as a typical outburst from a leader known for making impulsive and controversial remarks online.
This is not the first time General Muhoozi has waded into Kenyan politics. Just four days ago, he launched a public tirade against Kenya’s police forces involved in the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti, claiming they were underperforming and suggesting that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) could do a better job.
“It would take us one month to capture Port-au-Prince,” Muhoozi wrote in reference to Haiti’s capital, while also urging the United Nations to revoke Kenya’s role and grant Uganda the mandate to lead the mission.
Concerns Over Sovereignty and Regional Diplomacy
While his statements may not reflect official government policy in Kampala, they raise serious concerns about regional stability and diplomatic norms. Some Kenyan political analysts have called on President Ruto to issue a formal response to clarify the Kenyan government’s position on Uganda’s overtures.
Some Ruto supporters, however, welcomed the comments, viewing them as an expression of solidarity with a friendly neighboring government.
Regional Implications
If taken seriously, Muhoozi’s remarks could strain Uganda–Kenya relations, especially given that Kenya is a key player in East African peacekeeping efforts, including missions in Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It also adds fuel to Kenya’s already volatile political environment, coming just days after former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua accused President Ruto of profiling the Kikuyu community and orchestrating state-sponsored repression.
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