
The head of Uganda’s military, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also the son of long-serving President Yoweri Museveni, has sparked controversy by stating he would behead the country’s leading opposition figure, Bobi Wine. Kainerugaba, widely seen as Museveni’s likely successor, is known for his provocative social media posts, including a 2022 threat to invade Kenya, for which he later apologized. He has occasionally claimed that his remarks are meant ironically.
On Sunday evening, Kainerugaba posted on X (formerly Twitter) that his father, whom he referred to as “Mzee” (a term of respect for elders), was the only reason opposition leader Bobi Wine was still alive. “If Mzee was not there, I would cut off his head today,” he wrote.
Bobi Wine, whose real name is Robert Kyagulanyi and who came second to Museveni in the contested 2021 presidential election, responded that he did not take the threat lightly, citing past attempts on his life. Kainerugaba replied, “Finally! I woke you up? Before I behead you, repay us the money we loaned you,” suggesting the government had previously paid Wine to weaken opposition efforts.
Attempts to obtain comments from Kainerugaba and government officials were unsuccessful. A military spokesperson declined to comment, while the government spokesperson has previously characterized Kainerugaba’s posts as casual and not reflective of official policy.
Bobi Wine, a musician-turned-politician, has emerged as one of Museveni’s most significant political challengers, leveraging his popularity to gain a substantial following. He rejected the 2021 election results, citing widespread fraud, including ballot stuffing and voter intimidation.
Human rights groups have accused Museveni’s administration of extensive abuses, such as torture and arbitrary detentions. The government has consistently denied allegations of election rigging and human rights violations.
