The Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi has asked Ugandans to treat the remarks by the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba in regards the country’s next president.
Over the weekend, Gen Muhoozi ruled out a possibility of Uganda being ruled by a civilian after President Museveni leaves power.
“No civilian will lead Uganda after President Museveni. The security forces will not allow it. The next leader will be a soldier or policeman,” Gen Muhoozi posted on X.
These comments have since rattled a number of members of the public.
Responding to a question from journalists over the matter, Baryomunsi said whereas he has not yet talked to Gen Muhoozi over his comments, they cannot be treated as a government position.
“There are formal ways through which public officers communicate. Not every word that come from their mouths should not be taken as a government position. If the CDF is communicating a policy statement to Ugandans, there is a formal way of communicating,” he said.
“Casual conversation and casual talks should not be taken as government communication.”
The minister insisted he has not checked to confirm whether Gen Muhoozi made the said comments.
“If he indeed made the comment on X, it should be treated as casual that reflects probably his opinion and not the official position of government or of the UPDF.”
“If the UPDF is communicating, there are formal ways it does it.”
Baryomunsi said Uganda have no need to worry about the comments.
“ Ugandans should not worry( about the comments).