Fresh divisions have reportedly emerged within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) Central Executive Committee (CEC) over the possibility of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba succeeding his father, President Yoweri Museveni. According to reports about a recent CEC meeting in Entebbe, members expressed different positions, with some supporting Muhoozi’s possible presidency while others questioned whether he should automatically take over from his father.

Among those reportedly raising objections were wealthy businessman Hassan Basajjabalaba and Eastern Region NRM Vice Chairman Calvin Echodu. The two were said to have expressed reservations about the proposal, although their positions were reportedly presented differently during the discussions.

Chimp Reports, as cited by Mulengera News, reported that Echodu questioned Muhoozi’s experience in civilian leadership and argued that President Museveni should remain in office. He reportedly went further to suggest that Muhoozi should leave the position of Chief of Defence Forces and eventually transition from military service into civilian responsibilities to gain experience outside the army.

Basajjabalaba, a prominent businessman and political figure known for his association with Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, was reportedly more cautious in expressing his reservations. The report described him as reluctant to fully embrace the proposed Muhoozi succession arrangement, although it did not suggest that he openly led the opposition during the meeting.

The disagreements come against the background of earlier tensions involving Echodu and figures associated with Muhoozi’s political activities. Mulengera News recalled previous criticism directed at Echodu following disagreements over his political positions and his alleged failure to secure a ministerial appointment. The latest report also links the debate to disagreements surrounding former Deputy CDF Peter Elwelu and his treatment.

On the other side, Buganda Region NRM Chairman Haruna Kasolo and Kampala Special Region NRM Chairman Salim Uhuru reportedly emerged as prominent voices supporting Muhoozi. They are said to have highlighted his contribution to strengthening the army, fighting corruption and mobilising supporters through the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU).

The two reportedly argued that Muhoozi’s activities through PLU had helped revive enthusiasm among NRM supporters while putting pressure on opposition groups. They also praised his approach to leadership and his efforts to address corruption, although the report noted the political irony surrounding the fact that Speaker Anita Among, a close associate of Uhuru, had previously faced scrutiny in an anti-corruption campaign.

The reported exchanges show that the question of Museveni’s eventual successor remains a subject of discussion among influential NRM figures. However, the positions attributed to individual CEC members are based on media reports, and there has been no official announcement confirming that the party has formally selected Muhoozi or settled on a succession arrangement.