The Muhoozi Project is a two-decade-old initiative linked to Uganda’s military dictatorship, aiming to establish General Muhoozi, the Crown Prince and son of President Museveni, as the successor to the presidency. Initially concealed, the urgency brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic forced President Museveni to publicly announce his son as the designated heir, marking the overt phase of the scheme.
The initiation of the project featured widespread birthday celebrations across the country. Additionally, President Museveni involved Rwanda’s Paul Kagame, positioning him as the guarantor of the succession plan. Consequently, the Banyarwanda community in Uganda openly embraced an opportunistic claim to the project. The scheme evolved into what is now known as the MK Movement, which has launched a nationwide political mobilization effort called Baraza.
The Muhoozi Project has found support among a small opportunistic minority but faces strong resistance from the majority of Ugandans. The Banyarwanda community in Uganda and a handful of opportunists have openly embraced the scheme, while within the security apparatus, there exists a perceived obligation to support it, making opposition highly treasonable.
Despite the silent disapproval of the majority of Ugandans and the reluctant resistance from the political opposition, President Museveni perceives no significant threat to the scheme. This confidence stems from the fact that his son’s main constituency is within the security apparatus.
However, challenges arise from within the regime and its umbrella organization, NRA/NRM. Some top and middle cadre members oppose the scheme, though many do so in private due to potential repercussions. Notably, Gen. Otafiire stands out as a public and courageous opponent of the project. He has resisted threats, intimidation, and blackmail from Gen. Muhoozi and his opportunistic supporters. There are fears that Gen. Otafiire might be covertly mobilizing against the scheme.
A statement regarding the MK Movement Baraza scheduled for January 12, 2024, emphasized that the event was approved by the President, dismissing allegations of genocide promotion on Gen. Otafiire’s radio. This development reignited hostilities, resulting in sporadic skirmishes between the two factions.
With Gen. Otafiire holding an advantage, the Muhoozi Project has chosen a tactical withdrawal and entered into concealment. The MK Movement has been abandoned, making way for the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU). This new entity serves as a cover to disguise the scheme while maintaining the original objective.
The unfolding situation raises questions about Gen. Otafiire’s next moves. It remains to be seen if he will pursue a more aggressive strategy, potentially causing further scattering and disintegration of the Muhoozi Project. On the other hand, the Muhoozi Project might resort to defensive tactics, such as ambushes and landmines, in an attempt to impede or bog down any aggressive pursuit. The evolving dynamics suggest that the situation is fluid, and it is worth keeping an eye on further developments.
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