Former Government spokesperson and Member of Parliament Ofwono Opondo has dismissed claims that he fled Uganda following his public disagreement with Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. Opondo stated that he is currently away on official parliamentary duties and will return as planned. This response came after Muhoozi suggested on social media that Opondo had left the country to escape their escalating confrontation.
The exchange between the two government figures began when Opondo criticised Muhoozi's growing political ambitions and his involvement in political discussions while serving as CDF. Muhoozi reportedly issued Opondo a seven-day ultimatum, demanding that he apologise on his knees over remarks considered offensive. Opondo responded with a defiant statement, declaring: "The 7th day will find me at my burial ground." This remark was widely interpreted as a rejection of the pressure to apologise.
Opondo addressed Muhoozi as his "estranged brother" and explained that his absence from Uganda was connected to official parliamentary responsibilities, not an attempt to avoid confrontation. He maintained that there's "absolutely no reason" for him to flee his country and government. Opondo's response aimed to counter the impression that Muhoozi's earlier ultimatum had forced him into exile or made him abandon his political and government responsibilities.
The public disagreement has attracted attention due to the influential positions both individuals occupy within the ruling establishment. This raises questions about tensions between political leaders and the country's military leadership. The confrontation intensified with Muhoozi's warning that security personnel would be waiting for Opondo whenever he attempted to return.
Despite Muhoozi's warning, Opondo insists that he has no intention of abandoning Uganda and intends to return after completing his parliamentary engagements. The latest claims that he had fled Uganda have introduced another dimension to the dispute, with Opondo directly challenging the narrative and insisting that his absence is temporary.
The disagreement between Opondo and Muhoozi began after Opondo criticised Muhoozi's growing political ambitions and his involvement in political discussions while serving as CDF. Opondo's criticism sparked a heated debate, with Muhoozi reportedly reacting strongly to the comments. The situation has sparked concerns about the relationship between the government and the military.
Opondo's defiant stance has garnered significant attention, with many interpreting his response as a sign of his commitment to his position. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the disagreement between Opondo and Muhoozi will be resolved. For now, Opondo maintains that he will return to Uganda as planned.
Key points
- Ofwono Opondo denies fleeing Uganda amid disagreement with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
- Opondo attributes his absence to official parliamentary duties.
- The public disagreement raises questions about tensions between political leaders and the country's military leadership.
