Uganda: Museveni's Son Declares 2031 Presidential Bid, Vows to Win 90%

What the report says

Uganda’s army chief, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has publicly said he intends to run for president in 2031, according to Leadership’s report distributed by AllAfrica. The 52-year-old made the declaration on X, confirming long-running speculation that he could eventually succeed his father, President Yoweri Museveni.

Kainerugaba said he expects to win decisively and indicated that Museveni, whom Ugandans often call “Mzee,” would help lead his campaign. He already heads the Patriotic League of Uganda, described in the report as a political pressure group, in addition to his role as army chief.

The announcement is notable because Museveni has ruled Uganda since 1986 and remains one of Africa’s longest-serving leaders. The article notes that constitutional changes removed both presidential term limits and later the age cap for candidates, allowing Museveni to stay in office longer than earlier rules would have permitted. Kainerugaba had previously suggested he might contest the 2026 election, but later backed his father, who won that race.

The latest declaration renews discussion about succession politics in Uganda, where observers have long debated whether power could eventually pass within Museveni’s family. At the same time, the report says it is still unclear whether Museveni will seek another term in 2031, when he would be in his mid-80s.