In recent developments, it has come to our attention that President Museveni has reportedly appointed the former Vice President, Prof Gilbert Bukenya, to a big role within his government, marking a notable reconnection after a period of political detachment.
Bukenya, previously the Member of Parliament for Busiro North and Uganda’s 7th Vice President from 2003 to 2011, withdrew from the political limelight following his foray into presidential aspirations with The Democratic Alliance (TDA), an opposition party alliance, leading up to the 2016 general elections. Despite being an active participant in the TDA by submitting candidacy forms, Bukenya saw the alliance’s ticket handed to the former Prime Minister, John Patrick Amama Mbabazi.
President Museveni, in a surprising move, has now revived ties with his longtime associate, appointing Bukenya as the Senior Presidential Advisor on Environment and Sanitation. This announcement places Bukenya alongside other influential advisors in Museveni’s circle, such as Salim Saleh, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, and Nadduli, all of whom assumed their roles as special presidential advisors in February of the preceding year.
With this appointment, Bukenya is set to reap the benefits and privileges akin to those enjoyed by Cabinet Ministers, adding a new chapter to his political journey.
Gilbert Bukenya, born on September 22, 1949, is a Ugandan politician and academic. He served as the Vice President of Uganda from 2003 to 2011 under President Yoweri Museveni. Bukenya is a medical doctor by profession, holding a Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree from Makerere University.
Before entering politics, Bukenya had a successful career in academia, specializing in medicine and public health. He held various academic positions, including serving as a lecturer at Makerere University Medical School.
In addition to his academic pursuits, Bukenya ventured into politics and joined the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. He held several ministerial positions before being appointed as the Vice President of Uganda in 2003. During his tenure, he was involved in various governmental activities and initiatives.
However, Bukenya’s time as Vice President was not without controversy. He faced political challenges, including conflicts within the NRM, which eventually led to his removal from the position in 2011.
Post his vice-presidential role, Bukenya remained active in Ugandan politics, occasionally expressing his views on national issues. As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, please note that there might have been further developments or changes in Gilbert Bukenya’s life and career since then.
