Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has publicly expressed support for President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027. On October 2, Muhoozi posted on X that he was appointing National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula as his “Mutume” in Kenya. This move indicates that Wetang’ula will act as Muhoozi’s representative in the country and support Ruto’s re-election. Muhoozi’s backing comes as political activity around the 2027 General Election continues to intensify in Kenya.
Muhoozi’s remarks have sparked interest in Kenya’s political landscape, particularly given his stepped-up presidential ambitions in Uganda. In August, Muhoozi declared that he expects to secure 90 per cent of the vote in Uganda’s 2031 election with the backing of his father, President Yoweri Museveni. Muhoozi made this statement alongside a photograph of himself with Museveni, highlighting his confidence in securing the presidency. His declaration came days after publicly announcing his intention to seek Uganda’s highest office in 2031.
The appointment of Wetang’ula as Muhoozi’s representative in Kenya underscores the growing collaboration between Kenyan and Ugandan leaders. Wetang’ula has been actively campaigning for Ruto’s re-election, particularly in Western Kenya. In September, he urged Kenyans to assess Ruto’s development record as they prepare for the 2027 polls. Wetang’ula defended the President’s re-election bid, arguing that voters should focus on the government’s development record.
Wetang’ula’s public backing of Ruto has placed him among senior Kenya Kwanza leaders campaigning for the President’s second-term bid. The Speaker has frequently defended the administration’s record at public gatherings, citing developments in areas including infrastructure, healthcare, and the revival of key industries. In July, Wetang’ula called on residents in Western Kenya to support Ruto’s re-election, highlighting the government’s achievements in the region.
Muhoozi’s support for Ruto’s re-election bid is significant, given his influence in Uganda and the region. His public endorsement of Ruto’s bid is seen as a boost to the President’s campaign. As political activity continues to gather pace in Kenya, leaders are intensifying their mobilisation efforts. Wetang’ula has also urged eligible Kenyans who have not registered as voters to do so ahead of the registration deadline.
The 2027 General Election in Kenya is expected to be highly competitive, with various leaders vying for top positions. Ruto’s re-election bid is being supported by several senior leaders, including Wetang’ula. Muhoozi’s backing is likely to further bolster Ruto’s campaign, given his influence in the region. As the election approaches, leaders are expected to intensify their campaigns, with voters closely monitoring their development records.
The development highlights the growing interest in Kenya’s 2027 General Election, with leaders from across the region taking an active role in the campaign. Muhoozi’s support for Ruto’s re-election bid is a significant development, given his influence in Uganda and the region. As the election draws near, voters will be closely monitoring the development records of various leaders, including Ruto.
Key points
- Muhoozi’s backing is likely to boost Ruto’s re-election bid.
- Wetang’ula has been actively campaigning for Ruto’s re-election in Western Kenya.
- Muhoozi’s presidential ambitions in Uganda have been publicly declared.
