Whereas Ugandan Children Are Starving, More Attention Is Given To Someone Who Is Tweeting And Acting Outside The Constitution – Jimmy Akena Tells Off Gen Muhoozi

Uganda People's Congress (UPC) president Jimmy Akena has criticised the growing political attention surrounding Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, arguing that the country is paying more attention to his political activities than the challenges affecting ordinary Ugandans, particularly starving children.

Akena expressed his disappointment with what he described as a shift in national discussions, saying important issues affecting citizens were being ignored while political conversations increasingly centred on Muhoozi's statements and activities. He questioned why concerns about child hunger were not attracting the same attention.

According to Akena, he had previously raised concerns about the number of Ugandan children struggling with hunger but received little public response. He argued that the country should be discussing practical solutions to problems affecting families instead of allowing political personalities to dominate national conversations.

"Ugandan politics has disappeared from the issues. I raised the issue that Ugandan children are starving. Silence. Instead, we want to talk about somebody who is tweeting and acting outside the Constitution," Akena said.

His remarks were directed at Gen Muhoozi, whose political activities and possible presidential ambitions have continued to generate debate in Uganda. Akena questioned the constitutional implications of an active military officer participating in political mobilisation, citing Article 208, which provides for the non-partisan character of the Uganda People's Defence Forces.

The UPC leader also questioned the collection of signatures and endorsements associated with Muhoozi's political supporters, arguing that constitutional responsibilities should be respected. He challenged those interested in leading Uganda to focus on presenting policies and explaining how they intend to address the country's challenges.

Akena further claimed that 26 percent of Ugandan children were starving, using the figure to emphasise what he considers an urgent national concern. He called for more attention to children's welfare, education and access to basic necessities, saying their future should not be overshadowed by political disagreements.

His latest comments add to the ongoing debate about Gen Muhoozi's political activities, the role of the military in Uganda's politics and the priorities that should dominate national discussions.