Kampala, Uganda – (African Boulevard News) – The political landscape in Uganda is heating up as rival presidential hopefuls gear up for the 2026 poll. However, amidst the growing tensions, a surprising twist has emerged with the country’s Interior Minister, Kahinda Otafiire, throwing his support behind President Yoweri Museveni’s bid for re-election. This move has placed Otafiire in direct confrontation with “First Son” Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who is also eyeing the presidency.
Otafiire, a long-standing ally of President Museveni, has been a prominent figure within the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. His unwavering loyalty to the president has earned him various ministerial positions, including his current role as Interior Minister. By publicly endorsing Museveni’s re-election bid, Otafiire has placed himself in a contentious position against Kainerugaba, who is increasingly seen as the frontrunner for the NRM ticket in 2026.
The move by Otafiire has sparked speculation and divided opinions within the NRM party. Some believe that his support for Museveni is a strategic move to maintain his position in the government, while others see it as a genuine endorsement of the president’s leadership and vision for Uganda. Regardless of the motivations behind Otafiire’s decision, it adds an intriguing dynamic to an already intense political landscape.
Political analysts suggest that Otafiire’s backing of Museveni could have far-reaching implications for the NRM party and its presidential succession plan. Kainerugaba, who has been groomed by his father for the presidency, now faces an unexpected challenge from a senior party member. This development could potentially fracture the party and create divisions among its supporters.
“The endorsement by Otafiire adds a new layer of complexity to the NRM’s internal dynamics,” said political analyst Jane Kintu. “It creates a dilemma for those who have been anticipating a smooth transition of power within the party. The rivalry between Kainerugaba and Otafiire could shape the future of the NRM and the wider political landscape in Uganda.”
As the race for the 2026 poll intensifies, all eyes will be on the NRM party and its internal dynamics. The outcome of this power struggle between rival presidential hopefuls will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the future direction of Uganda. It remains to be seen how this unexpected twist will play out in the coming months and how it will shape the political landscape leading up to the elections.
In the midst of the political maneuvering and power struggles, one thing is clear – the 2026 poll in Uganda will be a pivotal moment for the country’s future. The decisions made by party members, including the surprising moves by Otafiire, will shape the path that Uganda takes in the coming years. As the nation braces itself for the high-stakes race, the political landscape promises to be both unpredictable and captivating.
