President Yoweri Museveni is reportedly considering plans to leave office before the 2031 general elections, with State House sources claiming that his brother, General Salim Saleh, has emerged as a possible successor. The claims, published by Ritah Kaggwa Blog, suggest that the President wants a smooth transfer of power that would preserve national stability and avoid political tensions.

According to the report, Museveni has been consulting selected stakeholders, including former Prime Minister Dr Ruhakana Rugunda and religious leaders, about the country’s political future. These consultations allegedly focused on identifying a person who could unite different groups and maintain peace during a possible transition.

The sources claim that some of those consulted recommended Gen Saleh, arguing that he could serve as a unifying figure because of the respect he reportedly enjoys among sections of the political establishment, opposition figures, business leaders, investors and members of the security forces. However, the report does not provide independent evidence confirming that such recommendations were formally made.

Ritah Kaggwa Blog further claims that Museveni told Rugunda privately that he would prefer to retire before 2031 but wants to ensure that power is transferred without creating instability. The report says the President believes national unity and peaceful cooperation among political groups would be important in achieving that objective.

In what the blog describes as a secret meeting, Museveni allegedly assigned Rugunda and Gen Saleh to prepare and present their ideas about succession. The two reportedly completed the task, although the specific proposals they submitted have not been made public.

The report also claims that Museveni has increasingly viewed his brother as a suitable option because of his alleged ability to engage different political interests, including the opposition. It further suggests that Gen Saleh could work with opposition leaders under a possible coalition government, although no such arrangement has been officially announced.

If the claims are accurate, the reported discussions would point to possible changes in the political calculations surrounding the country’s leadership ahead of 2031. However, the report has not provided public confirmation from State House, Museveni, Rugunda or Gen Saleh that the alleged succession plan exists.

The blog says a final decision could be reached during a future meeting involving ruling National Resistance Movement officials. Until an official announcement is made, Gen Saleh’s alleged selection should be treated as an unverified report rather than an established presidential succession decision.