A political storm that has gripped Uganda’s elite circles took a dramatic turn after Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba publicly apologized to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni over controversial remarks made by journalist and commentator Andrew Mwenda, who recently described the Head of State as “senile” in a sharply-worded article.
In a statement that quickly sent political circles buzzing, Muhoozi wrote:
“As Chairman of PLU, I want to sincerely apologize to H.E. the President for the embarrassing, uncharacteristic and wrong words one of our members, Andrew Mwenda, used against you. We are going to subject our member to a disciplinary process. The NRM/PLU alliance is strong.”
The apology follows days of intense public exchange sparked by Mwenda’s article, in which he made the explosive claim against Museveni, comments that triggered outrage among sections of the ruling establishment and fierce debate online.
President Museveni responded personally and forcefully, dismissing the claim and defending his record with a detailed list of achievements under his leadership, from economic reforms and infrastructure expansion to regional diplomacy and security stabilization.
In a pointed rebuttal, Museveni argued that a “senile person” could not have delivered the milestones Uganda has registered over the decades, effectively turning the criticism back on his accuser.
Mwenda later appeared to soften his stance and publicly apologized to the President, acknowledging the fallout caused by his remarks.
But Muhoozi’s intervention has added a fresh political twist, not only distancing the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) from Mwenda’s comments, but also sending a clear message that loyalty to Museveni within the NRM-PLU alliance remains intact.
The promise of disciplinary action against Mwenda has now thrown attention onto what consequences, if any, await one of Uganda’s most outspoken political commentators.
