The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has accused Western media outlets of favouring opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, popularly known as Bobi Wine, over Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba as a potential successor to President Yoweri Museveni.

In a statement issued on October 10, 2026, acting Director of Defence Public Information Col Chris Magezi responded to a New York Times article written by Megan K. Stack and titled “The Authoritarian Future Is Already Here,” published on October 8, 2026.

Magezi dismissed allegations made against Gen Muhoozi in the article, accusing the writer of relying on accounts from opposition figures and activists. He also cited previous reports by The Telegraph, The Wall Street Journal and The Economist, arguing that the publications had portrayed the UPDF leader negatively.

“What is clear though is that General Muhoozi Kainerugaba is not their preferred successor of choice to a post-Museveni Uganda,” Magezi said, adding that Western media would rather see Bobi Wine or someone with similar political views take charge. He maintained that Uganda’s future leadership would ultimately be determined by Ugandans.

One of the key issues addressed in the UPDF statement involved allegations by exiled Ugandan writer Kakwenza Rukirabashaija. In the New York Times article, Kakwenza reportedly described humiliating treatment during detention, alleged beatings that caused injuries and scars, and a subsequent offer of money to remain silent about the alleged abuse.

Magezi strongly rejected Kakwenza’s account, insisting that Gen Muhoozi had never met the writer. He also questioned aspects of the account, although the UPDF statement did not independently establish the circumstances surrounding the alleged incidents or injuries.

The army further defended Muhoozi’s military record, arguing that media coverage had placed too much emphasis on his social media remarks while overlooking his service and achievements. Magezi said serious allegations should be supported by credible evidence rather than anecdotal or politically motivated accounts.

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The UPDF maintained that it operates within Ugandan law and would continue supporting civilian authorities when required. Magezi also said the army would hold service members accountable if they broke the law, while warning against what he described as external interference in Uganda’s affairs. The statement represents the military’s position, while the allegations and competing claims have not been independently resolved in the material provided.