Democracy News

Ugandan Military Restructure Raises Concerns
March 01, 2010
By: Paul Larson | Printer Friendly

The Daily Nation has reported that the Ugandan Presidential Guard Brigade (PGB) will be merged into the Special Forces, controlled by President Museveni’s son Lt. Col Muhoozi Kainerugaba.  The report has raised concerns among opposition groups that President Museveni is grooming his son to take control of the government.

The BBC reports Ugandan opposition leader Hussein Kyanjo saying, "He's making the Ugandan presidency a monarchical affair and is clearly anointing his son to succeed him."  President Museveni appointed his wife into the cabinet as well as many relatives. 

The Daily Monitor has unconfirmed reports that there are plans to combine the PGB, Armored Brigade and Motorized Infantry in order to “make the single most deadly outfit of the Uganda People’s Defense Forces with immense fire-power capable of putting up the fiercest and stiffest of fights.” 

President Museveni is expected to run for his fourth consecutive term this year after changing the Ugandan constitution for eligibility in 2006.  He has held the office since 1987.

Sources:

BBC News - Yoweri Museveni 'preparing son to to lead Uganda'

Daily Monitor - Muhoozi eats big in PGB shake-up

Daily Nation - Museveni appoints son as force commander