Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has lauded Mathias Mpuuga, the former Leader of the Opposition, as “presidential material” while delivering a scathing critique of National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine.
“This gentleman is presidential material. He is an impressive politician,” Muhoozi said of Mpuuga on X (formerly Twitter), adding fuel to the ongoing tensions between Mpuuga and Kyagulanyi. The fallout between the two opposition figures escalated following a controversial service award Mpuuga accepted, which some NUP members saw as a betrayal.
Gen Muhoozi, however, spared no punches for Kyagulanyi, referring to him in derisive terms as “Kabobi.” He criticized Bobi Wine’s appearance, political persona, and even drew bizarre comparisons to reggae legend Bob Marley. “Kabobi tries to pretend that he is Bob Marley’s successor.
First of all, Bob Marley sang legendary music! Bob Marley was a handsome Munyankore whose teeth were organized! Kabobi’s teeth are very disorganized!”
This vitriol has sparked mixed reactions across Uganda’s political spectrum. Supporters of Gen Muhoozi applauded his remarks, with Balaam Barugahara, the Minister for Youth and Children, declaring, “With you, the people’s most loved commander in command, he better not participate in upcoming elections.” Critics, however, accused the general of engaging in petty political attacks instead of addressing critical national issues.
Mpuuga’s recent actions have further widened the rift within NUP. Last week, he launched a new political pressure group, the Democratic Alliance, which he envisions as a unifying platform for Ugandans across political divides.
Speaking to the press, Mpuuga hinted at his willingness to collaborate with any party, including the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), to address Uganda’s socio-political and economic challenges.
“I cannot afford to see my country go down with President Museveni,” Mpuuga said, underscoring his intention to move beyond partisan politics.
The Democratic Alliance, according to Mpuuga, will aim to create solutions to Uganda’s pressing issues while focusing on national unity. His openness to work with the NRM has drawn both praise and criticism, with some viewing it as a pragmatic move and others accusing him of capitulation.
Although barred by military code from engaging in political discourse, Gen Muhoozi’s frequent political commentary on social media has often pushed boundaries. His latest remarks targeting Kyagulanyi have reignited speculation about his own political ambitions ahead of the 2026 general elections.
Bobi Wine, who was President Museveni’s closest rival in the 2021 elections, remains a significant political force in Uganda, and Muhoozi’s sharp attacks are seen by many as part of a broader strategy to undermine his influence.
As Uganda inches closer to another electoral season, the dynamics between Mpuuga, Kyagulanyi, and Gen Muhoozi signal a turbulent political landscape. Whether Mpuuga’s Democratic Alliance can establish itself as a credible alternative or Gen Muhoozi’s comments hint at deeper political aspirations remains to be seen. For now, the nation watches as alliances shift and tensions rise in Uganda’s ever-evolving political arena.
