General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the son of Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, has stirred controversy after declaring that citizens who vote against his father in the forthcoming general election would be deported.
He also announced a ban on female soldiers wearing trousers.
Uganda is set to hold a general election in January amid growing pressure on the opposition. Kainerugaba, widely regarded as Museveni’s successor, is known for his provocative social media posts, often blurring the lines between personal views and state matters.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), he warned, “Individuals who do not support Mzee wholeheartedly better be very careful!”
He followed with a stern declaration, “We will deport all the traitors in public view!!”
This is not the first time Kainerugaba has drawn criticism. Earlier this month, he claimed responsibility for the capture and torture of opposition figure Bobi Wine’s bodyguard, Eddie Mutwe. Mutwe later appeared in court showing signs of torture, according to Uganda’s Justice Minister, Norbert Mao.
Taking to social media again, the army commander posted, “I took FULL responsibility for the actions of my soldiers, including the long overdue beating of Eddie Mutwe.”
He added, “That was an appetizer!”
In another controversial directive, Kainerugaba announced a new dress policy for women in the military.
“Trousers are for men, not for women. Anyone who forces our sisters to put on trousers on parade again will have a very bad day,” he stated.
While women make up only a small percentage of the Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF), they typically wear the same uniform as their male colleagues. Skirts are usually reserved for formal events, according to local media.
Kainerugaba’s remarks have raised fresh concerns over authoritarianism and gender discrimination within Uganda’s leadership and military structures.
AFP
