Ugandan Ministers Await President Museveni’s Cabinet Shuffle Amid Mounting Pressure

Pressure is building among Ugandan Ministers as President Museveni finalizes his new Cabinet lineup. The absence of President Museveni from a recent Cabinet meeting at State House Entebbe has sparked speculation within government circles about imminent changes. Sources indicate that Museveni’s absence from the customary Monday morning Cabinet session is a rare occurrence, leading to rumors of significant impending developments.

In response to the growing speculation, Farouk Kirunda, President Museveni’s deputy spokesperson, has urged for calm, assuring that any Cabinet reshuffle will be officially communicated. Meanwhile, Ministers are reportedly engaged in intense lobbying efforts to secure their positions, resorting to personal appeals to the President and leveraging influential connections.

The government is preparing to introduce Bills aimed at rationalizing agencies across key sectors such as Education, Internal Affairs, Natural Resources and Environment, and Works and Transport. This restructuring is expected to pave the way for new appointments in the Cabinet.

Recent reports of a leaked list containing potential new Cabinet members, including military figures, have further heightened tensions within State House. However, the list was reportedly withdrawn by President Museveni for undisclosed reasons, adding to the speculation surrounding the impending changes.

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

In political circles, there is speculation that Museveni is awaiting the passage of Bills by Parliament before announcing his new Cabinet. Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja recently announced plans to introduce Bills aimed at rationalizing agencies across various sectors, further fueling anticipation for the impending reshuffle.