Kabanda Explains Gen. Muhoozi's Entry into Politics and the Path Forward

David Kabanda, the Member of Parliament for Kasambya County, has strongly defended General Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s foray into partisan politics, attributing his involvement to external pressures and criticisms.

Kabanda, a key figure in the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), an offshoot of President Museveni’s National Resistance Movement (NRM), shared his perspective in a recent interview. He detailed how his own political journey intersected with Gen. Muhoozi’s, emphasizing that his initial meeting with the General predates his acquaintance with the Speaker of Parliament, Anita Among.

Kabanda explained that his political career began with the support of Patrick Nkalubo, who secured him a position at Mbabule FM. It was through this role that he met former minister Sam Kutesa, who mentored him. His introduction to Gen. Muhoozi came via an aide-de-camp, Christopher Muwumba.

He revealed the creation of Uganda’s first political WhatsApp group, ‘Pro-Museveni Youth,’ in 2013, a move prompted by consultations with Sam Kutesa regarding political support for President Museveni amidst internal opposition. Gen. Muhoozi’s affirmation of Amama Mbabazi as an “enemy within” at that time solidified Kabanda’s resolve.

Addressing the perceived contradiction of a military officer engaging in politics, Kabanda insisted that Gen. Muhoozi was “invited into politics by his critics.” He highlighted Gen. Muhoozi’s dedication to military service, including his training at Sandhurst and his commitment to national security, arguing that such dedication was often met with unwarranted political speculation and attacks, notably from Gen. David Sejusa.

Kabanda further elaborated on the formation of the “MK army” and subsequently the PLU, stating it was a response to protect Gen. Muhoozi from what they viewed as unfair criticism and attacks, particularly after his service in regions like Garamba and Congo.

When discussing corruption, Kabanda stated that Gen. Muhoozi’s focus on the issue is not an indictment of his father but a revelation that some individuals within the government prioritize personal gain over patriotism. He cited examples of financial mismanagement within the SFC that Gen. Muhoozi allegedly rectified.

Regarding criticism of Gen. Muhoozi’s military recruitment, Kabanda drew parallels to other nations’ mandatory military training and emphasized that Gen. Muhoozi’s actions were aimed at strengthening the national army, particularly given the attrition within the early ranks following the liberation struggle.

Kabanda dismissed notions of friction between the “old guard” and younger political factions, asserting that the PLU aims to reinforce the NRM’s objectives. He also responded to Gen. Kahinda Otafiire’s opposition to Gen. Muhoozi’s presidential ambitions, framing it as a personal opinion.

He defended Gen. Muhoozi’s use of social media, arguing it’s a necessary communication channel when other government officials remain silent. Kabanda also touched upon Minister Chris Baryomunsi’s remarks, suggesting that some officials serve out of convenience rather than conviction.

Regarding the Daily Monitor, Kabanda labelled the newspaper as “unpatriotic” for allegedly promoting the “enemies of the country” while benefiting from operating within Uganda.

This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.