PLU Expresses Discontent Over Cabinet Appointments, Citing Demotion

The Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), a pressure group advocating for Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s presidential aspirations, has expressed significant dissatisfaction with the recent Cabinet appointments. While PLU members and their allies secured at least 17 ministerial posts in the 83-member government, the group argues that their key figures have been strategically placed in ministries where their influence and ability to advance the PLU’s agenda are severely limited.

David Kabanda, the Secretary General of PLU, stated that many of their members have effectively been “demoted or literally put on Katebe” (a Luganda term for being unemployed or sidelined). He cited the redeployment of former Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka to the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs and Haruna Kasolo from Micro Finance State Minister as examples. Both, Kabanda noted, were instrumental in financing and mobilization for PLU, roles he believes are not conducive in their new portfolios.

Kabanda himself had previously declined a ministerial offer, emphasizing his commitment to his role within PLU. His sentiments were echoed by Gen. Kainerugaba on social media, who suggested that those seeking ministerial jobs had misunderstood the “gospel of PLU.” Gen. Kainerugaba tried to reassure Kabanda, calling his PLU position more important than a Cabinet seat and humorously suggesting Kabanda would only receive a ministerial post when NRM Secretary General Richard Todwong does.

Despite these assurances and stated preferences, the appointment process appears to have had its own complexities. Some individuals Gen. Kainerugaba had indicated would not receive posts were appointed, while others he had pledged to include were left out. The new Cabinet includes a mix of known PLU figures and new appointees, with PLU members taking on roles across various ministries, from Science, Technology and Innovation to Relief, Disaster Preparedness and Refugees.

Kabanda also attributed the cabinet’s composition to Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho, alias Salim Saleh, drawing a parallel with Cuba’s political succession. The PLU had previously paused its mobilization for Gen. Kainerugaba’s presidential bid when he was appointed Chief of Defence Forces, a move some interpreted as an effort to keep his political ambitions in check. The recent appointments have, however, brought their discontent to the surface.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)