President Yoweri Museveni has once again turned to trusted political veterans and longtime loyalists in his latest round of presidential appointments, reasserting control ahead of the 2026 elections.
Among the most notable developments is the appointment of veteran journalist Tony Owana as Presidential Advisor on NRA Archives.
These appointments, made under Article 172 of Uganda’s Constitution, reflect a deliberate push to tighten the President’s grip on ideological messaging and historical continuity, while also rewarding unwavering loyalty within the National Resistance Movement (NRM).
Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, Uganda’s former Prime Minister and a seasoned diplomat, retained his post as Special Envoy for Special Duties in the Office of the President.
His continued presence signals Museveni’s preference for steady hands with a deep understanding of statecraft and internal party dynamics.
Also reappointed is Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, who continues as Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs. Namyalo, the face behind the “Bazzukulu Ba Museveni” movement, has played a key role in youth mobilisation, especially in urban areas where opposition sentiment has been growing.
Hajj Abdul Nadduli, a veteran of the liberation struggle and a former minister, also returns as Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilisation.
His long-standing engagement with grassroots structures makes him a key political actor in maintaining NRM’s rural support base.
Tony Owana’s inclusion as Advisor on NRA Archives marks a strategic step. Known for his sharp commentary and extensive broadcasting experience, Owana will now be tasked with preserving and promoting the historical legacy of the National Resistance Army (NRA)—a critical component of Museveni’s long-standing narrative around liberation and power.
Other high-profile reappointments include:
- Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu – Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs
- Dr. Sheikh Mohamed Ahmed Kisuule – Senior Presidential Advisor on Middle East Affairs
- Maj. Gen. Kiiza Ali (Rtd) – Senior Presidential Advisor on Air Force
- Abbey Walusimbi – Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs
- Monica Azuba Ntege – Senior Presidential Advisor (Portfolio unspecified)
- David Kenneth Mafabi – Advisor on Political Affairs, focusing on civic engagement
- Richard Muhinda – Advisor on Public Service Matters
Cultural and thematic appointments were also included. For instance, Ssebunya Robert was retained as Advisor on Buganda Matters, while Lt. Col. Anthony Kyakabale was named Advisor on Reconciliation, a significant choice given his past as a rebel commander in exile.
John Arimpa Kigyagi, former NRM Electoral Commission deputy chair, will now advise on environmental matters, including climate policy.
Florence Mutyabule, from Busoga Sub-region, continues to lead poverty alleviation advisory work, and Dr. Beatrice Wabudeya returns with a focus on veterinary services.
The sprawling list also includes Gertrude Njuba Norah (Political Affairs and Lands), Mary Kawuma, Francis Okello Opio (Lango Zone), and Luttamaguzi Patrick, who was retained as Private Secretary on NRA Archives.
Though largely ceremonial, these roles come with government salaries, allowances, and access to official perks like housing, transportation, and healthcare.
But with the number of presidential advisors steadily growing, critics argue the structure places a heavy financial burden on taxpayers—especially as many roles seem symbolic or overlapping.
Nevertheless, the message from State House is clear: loyalty, historical alignment, and grassroots clout remain the pillars of Museveni’s governance strategy as he eyes another term.
These appointments reaffirm his reliance on known quantities to steer ideological messaging and political mobilisation in what is shaping up to be a pivotal political cycle.
