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PARLIAMENT - Parliament’s Defence and Internal Affairs Committee has declined to review the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs’ budget proposals, insisting on the physical presence of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Muhoozi Kainerugaba to address concerns over his inflammatory tweets. Dubbed the "Tweeting General," Muhoozi has faced criticism for making threatening statements against prominent Ugandans, including former presidential candidates Robert Kyagulanyi and Dr. Kizza Besigye.
Committee's stance
During a session chaired by Wilson Kajwengye (Nyabushozi County), MPs demanded that Muhoozi be part of the delegation appearing before the committee. Derrick Nyeko (Makindye East) criticized Muhoozi's absence, questioning his commitment to fostering harmony between the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and civilians. “The CDF must account for his actions, including tweets threatening to hang opposition leaders and attacking neighboring countries. Such behavior undermines the UPDF's mandate to defend sovereignty and promote civilian-military harmony,” said Nyeko.
Nyeko said that Muhoozi's behavior undermines the UPDF's mandate to defend sovereignty and promote civilian-military harmony
Joel Ssebikaali (Ntwetwe County) echoed similar concerns, stating, “We expect the CDF to personally address these issues. His actions could lead to institutional breakdowns if left unchecked.”
Kajwengye directed the Defence Ministry delegation to reconvene on Monday with Muhoozi present, emphasizing the importance of accountability.
Minister Oboth’s defense
Minister of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Jacob Oboth, attempted to deflect responsibility for Muhoozi’s tweets, describing them as “personal” and unrelated to the ministry's official operations. “As a ministry, we don’t manage his handle. When he appears, he can answer these personal questions,” Oboth stated.
Some of Muhoozi’s provocative tweet
Muhoozi Kainerugaba escalated tensions with a series of incendiary tweets after the parliamentary session.
Muhoozi also demanded an additional Shs1 trillion for the UPDF, asserting that Parliament must approve the funding.
"Tweeting General" Muhoozi
MPs react
The tweets provoked outrage among MPs, with some calling for immediate disciplinary measures against Muhoozi. “These reckless remarks undermine not only the credibility of the UPDF but also the nation’s stability,” said Nyeko.
Way forward
The Defence and Internal Affairs Committee is set to reconvene on Monday, with heightened anticipation for Muhoozi’s response to the committee’s summons and his controversial public statements.
Torch Media Africa