KAMPALA, Uganda — Information and National Guidance Minister Chris Baryomunsi has ignited fresh national debate after a sharp exchange with Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defence Forces, and Daudi Kabanda, a senior figure in the Patriotic League of Uganda. The confrontation has exposed growing tensions within the ruling National Resistance Movement.
The dispute began earlier this week after Baryomunsi, speaking on a Capital FM political talk show, criticized Muhoozi’s frequent social media posts, many of which are later deleted. He said the posts create confusion, contradict official government positions and attract unnecessary international attention. Baryomunsi said he raised the matter with President Yoweri Museveni, noting that the posts make his work as government spokesperson more difficult.
Muhoozi responded on X with a strongly worded post, calling Baryomunsi a traitor and declaring that he would never again serve as a minister. He also warned him against publicly mentioning his name. The attack was quickly echoed by Kabanda, the secretary general of the Patriotic League of Uganda, which is closely associated with Muhoozi. Kabanda accused Baryomunsi of political opportunism and alleged abuse of power during past elections, arguing that he lacked the moral authority to criticize Muhoozi.
Baryomunsi dismissed the remarks and said his political career was built on personal merit rather than patronage. He accused Muhoozi of lacking maturity in public conduct and brushed off Kabanda’s comments as empty rhetoric. The exchange quickly dominated political debate and social media discussion across the country.
Appearing on the African Institute for Investigative Journalism program Hard Questions, Baryomunsi defended his record and rejected claims that he was seeking favors. He said he speaks openly on issues others fear to address and does not depend on political office for survival. He cited his background as a medical doctor and former United Nations adviser, saying he had previously turned down senior international positions to pursue elective politics.
Political analysts say the clash goes beyond personal disagreements. They argue it reflects deeper struggles within the ruling movement over discipline, loyalty and the future direction of leadership. Muhoozi’s social media activity has previously raised diplomatic concerns, while Baryomunsi’s remarks highlight the challenge of maintaining a unified government message.
Whether the confrontation weakens or strengthens Baryomunsi’s standing within the NRM remains unclear. What is evident, however, is that internal tensions within the ruling party have once again been pushed into the public spotlight.
