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Uganda People’s Congress (UPC) president Jimmy Akena has openly challenged Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba over what he described as strange, reckless, and worrying public statements.
Speaking boldly, Akena made it clear that even if others are afraid to confront the powerful army chief, he is ready to do so himself.
Akena’s remarks come at a time when public debate is growing over the role of the military in national politics.
Many Ugandans have expressed concern about statements made by senior security officials, especially when such comments appear to threaten political opponents or promote fear.
Addressing journalists, Akena did not mince his words. He said that if everyone else fears to openly confront Gen Muhoozi about his behavior, then he would be the one to stand up and speak out. His tone was firm, direct, and unapologetic.
According to Akena, leadership demands maturity and discipline. He argued that public officials, especially those in charge of the armed forces, must speak carefully because their words carry great weight and consequences for the nation.
Akena criticized what he called “weird statements” coming from Gen Muhoozi, particularly those shared on social media.
He said such remarks do not only damage the image of the army but also embarrass the country as a whole.
He further warned that careless statements from powerful offices can increase fear among citizens. In a country with a long political history marked by conflict, Akena said leaders should be working to calm tensions, not inflame them.
The UPC leader also touched on the issue of political competition and respect. He questioned how threats or violent language could be directed at opposition figures who contested in national elections and received support from millions of Ugandans.
Akena stressed that democracy allows different political views to exist. He said no leader, regardless of their position, should treat political opponents as enemies who deserve harm or humiliation.
In his view, silence from leaders and institutions can be dangerous. Akena suggested that fear has kept many people quiet, even when they disagree with the conduct of those in power.
By choosing to speak out, Akena positioned himself as a voice willing to challenge authority. He said leadership is not about intimidation, but about responsibility, respect, and service to the people.
He also reminded Gen Muhoozi that many Ugandans are watching closely. With growing interest in his political future, Akena said the CDF’s actions and words are being judged both locally and internationally.
Akena argued that if Gen Muhoozi has presidential ambitions, then he must begin acting like a national leader now. He said maturity, restraint, and wisdom are key qualities expected from anyone seeking to lead the country.
The UPC president warned that reckless speech can weaken public trust in state institutions. When citizens lose confidence in leadership, he said, the whole nation suffers.
He further noted that the army should remain professional and neutral. According to Akena, the military’s role is to protect the country, not to issue political threats or engage in online confrontations.
Akena’s statement has sparked debate across the political divide. Some have praised his courage for speaking openly, while others see his remarks as a rare moment of direct confrontation in Uganda’s politics.
Political analysts say Akena’s comments reflect growing unease among opposition leaders. Many feel that the political environment is becoming more tense and unpredictable.
Human rights advocates have also echoed similar concerns in the past. They have warned that violent language from powerful figures can encourage abuses and silence dissenting voices.
Akena maintained that speaking out is not an act of hatred, but of responsibility. He said calling out bad behavior is necessary if the country is to move forward peacefully.
He urged Gen Muhoozi to reflect on his words and actions. According to Akena, true strength lies in self-control, not in threats or intimidation.
As the political climate continues to heat up, Akena’s bold message has added a new voice to the national conversation. Whether others will follow his lead remains to be seen.
For now, Jimmy Akena has made his position clear. If fear keeps others silent, he says he will not be quiet, insisting that Uganda deserves leadership that speaks wisely, acts responsibly, and respects democracy.
