Uganda’s President appoints son as new Chief of Defence Forces in cabinet reshuffle

Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni has appointed his son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, as the new Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), replacing Gen Wilson Mbasu Mbadi. 

This announcement came as part of a cabinet reshuffle revealed on Thursday evening, with Gen Mbadi transitioning to the role of Minister of State for Trade.

Gen Muhoozi, previously serving as his father’s senior presidential advisor in charge of special operations, now steps into the pivotal role of leading the country’s defense forces. 

This decision follows closely on the heels of President Museveni presenting the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Establishment 2021, a crucial document delineating command and administration within the military, to Gen Mbadi on February 17.

President Museveni invoked his constitutional authority and the provisions of the UPDF Act, 2005, during the Defence Council meeting, formally entrusting Gen Mbadi with command over all elements of the UPDF. 

The reshuffle also saw the appointment of Lt Gen Samuel Okiding as the deputy CDF, succeeding Gen Peter Elwelu, who now serves as one of the President’s senior advisors. 

Additionally, Maj Gen Jackson Bakasumba assumes the role of the new Joint Chief of Staff, replacing Maj Gen Leopold Eric Kyanda, who takes on the position of Defence attaché. 

Meanwhile, Brig Gen David Mugisha has been promoted to the rank of Major General as he transitions from his role as commander of the Special Forces Command (SFC). 

Furthermore, Asaph Nyakyikuru, previously serving as the Commando Brigade commander, has been elevated to the rank of Brigadier General from his previous position as Colonel. 

These changes mark a significant restructuring within Uganda’s military hierarchy, with Gen Muhoozi’s appointment drawing particular attention due to his familial ties to the President.