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Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has praised former Aruu County MP Honourable Odonga Otto after the politician reportedly spoke to him about issues affecting Uganda and the country’s political leadership.
In a message directed at Odonga Otto, Muhoozi said he appreciated what he described as the truth spoken to him by the former legislator. He said he was not afraid of hearing difficult or uncomfortable truths.
“I want to bless my brother Honourable Odonga Otto. He spoke truth to me. I do not fear the truth. It is our enemies that fear the truth,” Muhoozi said.
The remarks appeared to signal a positive response from Muhoozi to criticism or advice coming from a political figure outside his immediate political circle. Rather than rejecting the message, the General said he welcomed what he considered honest and truthful observations.
Odonga Otto is a former Member of Parliament who represented Aruu County for several terms and became known for his outspoken political views. Throughout his political career, he has frequently commented on national affairs and challenged leaders on issues he believes deserve public attention.
Muhoozi’s decision to publicly praise Otto therefore attracted attention, particularly because the two figures come from different political backgrounds. His message suggested that he was willing to listen to individuals even when their views may not necessarily align with his own.
The General emphasised that he does not fear the truth, presenting the ability to accept criticism and opposing opinions as a strength rather than a weakness. He suggested that leaders should be able to listen when people point out issues they may not have considered.
Muhoozi further contrasted his position with what he described as the attitude of his enemies. According to him, it is those who oppose his political ideas or interests who fear the truth.
The statement comes at a time when Muhoozi has continued to make outspoken comments about Uganda’s political future, national leadership and the role of the younger generation.
His public interventions have frequently generated debate, with supporters praising his confidence while critics have questioned some of his statements and positions.
By praising Otto, Muhoozi appeared to place greater emphasis on the importance of honest conversations, regardless of the political identity of the person delivering the message.
The reference to Otto as “my brother” also highlighted the personal tone of the message. Muhoozi did not treat the former MP simply as a political commentator but instead used language suggesting respect and appreciation for him.
Otto has previously built a reputation for making direct and sometimes controversial statements on matters of national importance. His approach has often involved challenging political leaders and institutions to explain decisions or positions that he believes require public scrutiny.
Muhoozi’s response suggests that, in this particular instance, he viewed Otto’s comments as constructive rather than hostile. He therefore chose to publicly acknowledge him and express appreciation for what he regarded as speaking honestly.
The General’s message also raises broader questions about how political leaders respond to criticism. In a political environment where disagreements can quickly become confrontational, Muhoozi’s statement presented acceptance of truth as something that should not automatically be interpreted as weakness.
He maintained that those who are confident in their position should be able to listen to criticism and distinguish between genuine disagreement and attempts to undermine them.
The remarks may also encourage further discussion about the relationship between political leaders and their critics, especially when criticism comes from experienced politicians such as Otto.
For Muhoozi, the important point appeared to be that he values what he considers truth, regardless of who delivers it. His message to Otto therefore carried both a personal expression of appreciation and a broader statement about his willingness to listen.
The comments are likely to attract attention from supporters of both men, particularly because Otto has historically been associated with strong political opinions while Muhoozi has emerged as an increasingly prominent figure in Uganda’s political discussions.
As political debates continue across the country, Muhoozi’s message provides an example of how a senior political and military figure can publicly acknowledge criticism or advice from a person outside his immediate camp.
By ending his message with the assertion that he does not fear the truth, Muhoozi reinforced his position that he is prepared to hear difficult messages and respond to them, while maintaining that those who truly fear the truth are his enemies.
