Ugandan Ministers Feel the Heat as President Museveni Finalizes New Cabinet

As President Museveni puts the finishing touches on his new Cabinet, Ugandan Ministers are feeling the pressure. President Museveni’s absence from a recent Cabinet meeting at State House Entebbe has raised eyebrows and speculation about imminent changes. Sources reveal that it’s rare for Museveni to miss the routine Monday morning Cabinet session, leading to rumors of significant shifts in the government.

In response to the mounting speculation, Farouk Kirunda, President Museveni’s deputy spokesperson, has called for calm, promising that any Cabinet reshuffle will be officially announced. Meanwhile, Ministers are reportedly engaged in intense lobbying efforts to secure their positions, reaching out to the President directly and leveraging their connections.

The government is gearing up to introduce Bills aimed at streamlining agencies across key sectors such as Education, Internal Affairs, Natural Resources and Environment, and Works and Transport. This restructuring is expected to open up opportunities for new faces in the Cabinet.

Recent reports of a leaked list containing potential new Cabinet members, including military personnel, have added to the tension within State House. However, the list was reportedly withdrawn by President Museveni, further fueling speculation about the impending changes.

With President Museveni signaling his intentions for Cabinet adjustments since late December 2023, anxiety is running high among Ministers, especially with the 2026 elections drawing closer.

In political circles, there’s speculation that Museveni is waiting for Parliament to pass Bills before announcing his new Cabinet. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja recently announced plans to introduce Bills aimed at rationalizing agencies across various sectors, adding to the anticipation surrounding the reshuffle.