General Muhoozi Kainerugaba announces plan to step down as Uganda's military chief

In a statement issued on Friday, November 6, Kainerugaba said he was preparing to hand over the office to another qualified military officer before turning his attention to his Christian faith.

“My time as CDF is coming to an end. I have accomplished all the tasks my God gave me. In a few months, I will hand over this office to a qualified officer. I shall dedicate my life to Christ after that,” he said.

However, he made it clear he would not leave the armed forces immediately.

He said he expected to remain in the military for at least another year, although he did not give a specific date for his departure.

The CDF also did not name the officer who could succeed him in the powerful position.

His father, President Yoweri Museveni, appointed him CDF on March 21, 2024, replacing General Wilson Mbasu Mbadi, who was later appointed Minister of State for Trade.

He officially took over the position on March 28, 2024, during a handover ceremony at the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) 4th Division Headquarters in Gulu, becoming the 13th officer to serve as the country’s military chief.

Before his appointment, Kainerugaba served as Museveni’s senior presidential adviser on special operations.

He also held several senior military positions, including commander of land forces.

When he took office, he pledged to improve the welfare of soldiers, fight corruption and address the poor management of military resources.

He also pledged to uphold the professionalism of the UPDF and strengthen its capacity to deal with security threats such as terrorism, cattle rustling and cybercrime.

However, his appointment attracted considerable public attention, partly because of his close family ties to the President and his growing involvement in politics.

The CDF's military career has also remained a subject of public debate, particularly amid growing discussions about Uganda’s political succession and the country’s future leadership.

His latest announcement is therefore likely to renew questions about both the future of the UPDF leadership and the direction he intends to take after leaving the CDF position.