Ugandan Ministers on Edge as President Museveni Finalizes New Cabinet

Pressure mounts among Ugandan Ministers as President Museveni puts the finishing touches on his new Cabinet lineup. The absence of Museveni from a recent Cabinet meeting at State House Entebbe has sparked speculation within government circles about an impending shake-up. Sources indicate that Museveni’s nonattendance at the typically routine Monday morning Cabinet session is a rare occurrence, fueling rumors of significant changes.

Amid public speculation, President Museveni’s deputy spokesperson, Farouk Kirunda, has urged for calm, stating that any Cabinet reshuffle will be officially communicated. Meanwhile, Ministers are reportedly engaged in vigorous lobbying efforts to retain their positions, including personal appeals to the President and leveraging influential connections.

The government is preparing 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 anticipated to create openings for new Cabinet appointments.

Recent reports of a leaked list of prospective Cabinet Ministers, which reportedly included military figures, have caused unease within State House. However, the list was purportedly withdrawn by President Museveni for reasons undisclosed.

With Museveni having signaled plans for Cabinet changes since late December 2023, tensions are palpable among Ministers, particularly as the 2026 elections draw nearer.

Speculation abounds in political circles that Museveni is awaiting the passage of Bills by Parliament before unveiling his new Cabinet. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja recently announced intentions to table Bills aimed at rationalizing agencies across various sectors.