Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has declined an interview request from British broadcaster Channel 4 News, sparking debate over media engagement in Uganda’s tense post-election climate.
The request was made by Lindsey Hilsum, the International Editor for Channel 4 News, who formally wrote to Gen Muhoozi seeking an interview to discuss Uganda’s post-election situation and his personal perspective as the country’s top military commander. The approach was seen as an attempt to provide international audiences with insight into developments following the disputed elections.
Gen Muhoozi, however, dismissed the request in a characteristically sharp response. Referencing Lake Victoria, he indicated that he would only consider the interview “when Lake Victoria dries,” a remark widely interpreted as a firm and final rejection. He further criticised what he described as selective interest from Western media, questioning why such engagement was being sought only after key political moments had passed.
Despite the rejection, Hilsum followed up hours later, reiterating her interest and stressing the importance of allowing people outside Uganda to hear Gen Muhoozi’s point of view directly. The renewed appeal did not change the outcome. Gen Muhoozi again declined, stating that he was not interested in participating in interviews out of obligation and suggesting that genuine questions could be asked without expectations of preferential access.
The incident has attracted attention largely because Gen Muhoozi has never granted a television interview, making this a rare public glimpse into his stance on international media engagement. In the current post-election environment, marked by heightened political sensitivity and scrutiny, many observers have supported his decision to avoid media appearances, arguing that silence may help prevent further tension. Others, however, believe that open dialogue with international media could help clarify Uganda’s position on the global stage.
By Newshub