Minister of Internal Affairs Gen Kahinda Otafiire has issued a stern warning to the citizens of Uganda, cautioning them against transforming the nation into a hereditary monarchy dominated by a single family.
Gen Otafiire, a key figure in the National Resistance Army (NRA) and a veteran of the war that led to the establishment of the current government, reasserted his disapproval of President Yoweri Museveni’s succession plan, wherein leadership would be passed on to his son, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
As one of the esteemed NRA historicals at 73 years old, Gen Otafiire emphasized that the sacrifices made during the war were not intended to pave the way for a familial rule over the country.
In an interview with NBS, he urged Ugandans to consider this factor when casting their votes for the next leader, emphasizing the importance of selecting a candidate capable of addressing the nation’s challenges.
“Think about what you want. Vote for the person who will solve your problems,” Otafiire stressed, cautioning against perpetuating a cycle where political power is inherited within families, ultimately jeopardizing the democratic ideals for which they fought.
Expressing his ongoing opposition to Gen Muhoozi’s presidential aspirations, Gen Otafiire underscored the potential erosion of democratic principles if political power continues to be passed down through generations.
Over the course of the past two years, Gen Otafiire has consistently voiced his concerns about Gen Muhoozi succeeding his father as Uganda’s President. Meanwhile, Gen Muhoozi, who has declared his intention to run for the presidency, has openly displayed his aversion to Gen Otafiire and others who oppose his political ambitions.
In the interview, Gen Otafiire suggested that if the First Son is genuinely qualified to lead the country, he should demonstrate his capabilities to the people of Uganda, rather than relying solely on his familial connections.
