Kampala, Uganda – A lawsuit has been filed challenging the appointment and roles of three prominent members of President Yoweri Museveni’s family, alleging that their influential positions contravene Uganda’s Constitution and transform the nation into a feudal state run by a family enterprise. The lawsuit, which targets First Lady and Minister of Education Janet Museveni, the President’s son and Chief of Defence Forces General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and the President’s brother General Salim Saleh, raises questions about the centralization of power within the First Family.
The Allegations and Legal Claims
The lawsuit, filed by a group of Ugandan lawyers and political activists, argues that the appointments of Janet Museveni, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and Salim Saleh violate multiple provisions of the Ugandan Constitution, particularly those related to the separation of powers, transparency, and merit-based public service appointments. The plaintiffs claim that these appointments have entrenched Uganda into a de facto monarchy, where leadership and critical state functions are concentrated within the First Family, undermining the principle of democratic governance.
The legal team behind the lawsuit accuses President Museveni of turning the Ugandan state into a family-run enterprise, with key positions in the military, government, and economy occupied by his relatives. They argue that this concentration of power disregards the Constitution’s call for public accountability and fairness in governance, effectively undermining the rule of law.
Who Are the Key Figures Involved?
Janet Museveni – First Lady and Minister of Education
Janet Museveni, the wife of President Yoweri Museveni, has been Uganda’s Minister of Education and Sports since 2016. Her appointment sparked controversy, as critics argued that her role was politically motivated rather than based on qualifications. Janet Museveni has been involved in various public service roles throughout her husband’s presidency, often accused of promoting family interests over national priorities. The lawsuit claims her appointment violated principles of transparency, suggesting she was chosen due to her familial ties rather than merit, and undermines trust in Uganda’s educational reforms.
Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba – President’s Son and Chief of Defence Forces
Muhoozi Kainerugaba has long been groomed for leadership roles in Uganda. He has held various high-ranking positions in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and was controversially appointed as the Chief of Defence Forces. Many Ugandans and international observers have raised concerns over Muhoozi’s rapid rise within the military, speculating that his ascent is part of a succession plan by President Museveni to ensure family control of Uganda’s highest office. The lawsuit argues that Muhoozi’s military dominance threatens the balance of power and undermines civilian control of the armed forces.
Gen Salim Saleh – President’s Brother and Advisor on Military and Security
General Salim Saleh, born Caleb Akandwanaho, has been a pivotal figure in Uganda’s military and security sectors. He has served in various military capacities, including as a Senior Presidential Advisor on Defence and Security. Saleh is also a key player in Uganda’s economy, often accused of blending military influence with personal business interests. His deep involvement in national affairs has fueled allegations that Uganda is becoming a ‘military-commercial state’ controlled by the First Family. The lawsuit calls into question his unchecked influence and conflicts of interest as a member of the President’s inner circle.
Background: A Feudal State Allegation
The core of the lawsuit is the claim that Uganda is being transformed into a feudal state, where political power, military influence, and economic control are centralized within one family. This accusation has its roots in historical governance systems where monarchs or ruling families exercised unilateral control over state affairs, often to the detriment of democratic principles. The plaintiffs argue that this is evident in Uganda today, with key sectors—education, defense, and economic development—being dominated by family members who are neither elected nor subject to appropriate levels of public scrutiny.
The lawsuit also echoes long-standing critiques from Uganda’s opposition parties and civil society organizations, who have repeatedly accused President Museveni of perpetuating a dynastic rule. Museveni, who has been in power since 1986, has often been criticized for eroding the democratic institutions that ensure checks and balances on executive power.
Historical Context: How Did They Rise to Power?
Janet Museveni’s Political Entry
Janet Museveni entered politics officially in 2006 when she won a parliamentary seat representing Ruhaama County. Before her direct involvement in politics, she was a key figure in Uganda’s development and charity initiatives, including founding the Uganda Women’s Effort to Save Orphans (UWESO). Her appointment as Minister of Education, however, marked a significant increase in her political influence, which many saw as part of the Museveni family’s entrenchment in government.
Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s Military Ascendancy
Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s rise within Uganda’s military has been controversial since he was first enrolled in elite military training programs abroad. Over the years, Muhoozi has moved through the ranks of the UPDF, from commanding Uganda’s elite Special Forces Command to becoming the Chief of Defence Forces. Many observers view his military career as a clear sign of President Museveni’s intention to secure his son’s eventual leadership of Uganda, with numerous promotions and key roles being awarded to him without regard for the usual processes.
Salim Saleh’s Military and Economic Influence
Gen Salim Saleh has been a major figure in Uganda’s military history, credited with playing a key role in the overthrow of previous regimes alongside his brother, Yoweri Museveni. Over time, Saleh transitioned from military roles to economic ventures, holding significant influence in Uganda’s business landscape. He has been involved in controversial deals related to military procurement and economic projects, with critics arguing that his influence blurs the lines between state and private business, raising concerns about corruption.
The lawsuit has triggered widespread debate in Uganda about the concentration of power in the hands of the First Family. If successful, it could result in significant legal and political ramifications, potentially forcing the removal of key figures from their positions. It could also spark broader discussions about governance reforms and constitutional amendments to prevent similar situations in the future.
The Ugandan government has yet to respond officially to the lawsuit, but political analysts expect a fierce legal battle. Meanwhile, opposition groups and civil society organizations have hailed the lawsuit as a long-overdue effort to restore constitutional governance in Uganda.
CMP Publications will continue to provide updates on this developing story as it unfolds.
Stay tuned to CMP Publications for comprehensive coverage of this legal challenge and the broader implications for Uganda’s political future.