By Ben Musanje
Former BBC journalist Alan Kasujja has pulled back the curtain on Uganda’s power corridors, sharing insights that few outsiders or even Ugandans themselves fully grasp.
Speaking with a rare blend of candour, loyalty, and journalistic curiosity, Kasujja reflected on the complexities of his homeland, the influence of youth, the persistent grip of corruption, and the controversial yet quietly commanding figure of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Kasujja, who spent thirteen years inside one of the world’s most influential newsrooms, explained how narratives are shaped, how deepfakes threaten democracy, and how Western coverage often carries subtle biases when reporting on Africa.
But when he turned his gaze inward, to Uganda, he spoke almost confessional, revealing observations shaped by both distance abroad and first-hand experiences in Kampala.
He described Uganda as a complex country, shaped by a critical mass of young people demanding better services, accountability, and less corruption.
Yet, he noted, many of these same young people also participate in the petty corruption they denounce.
To illustrate, he recounted a recent Uber ride through central Kampala, where the young driver took a one-way street and was stopped by a police officer.
Instead of paying the official fine, the driver slipped the officer 5,000 shillings. Kasujja used the incident to highlight the contradiction in Uganda, noting that the absence of consequences often encourages such behaviour.
He pointed out that while citizens demand a functioning society, many will take shortcuts when given the chance, reflecting a broader tension in the country between aspiration and everyday reality.
Kasujja then turned to leadership and reform, highlighting the changes in the Uganda People’s Defence Forces since Gen. Muhoozi took over. He noted that soldiers’ welfare has improved, discipline has tightened, and corruption is being actively challenged.
According to Kasujja, the shift is rooted not only in policy but in Muhoozi’s decisiveness and clarity of command, which has transformed how decisions are made and communicated within the military.
Kasujja emphasized that his admiration for Muhoozi is deeply personal, shaped by long conversations about the general’s hopes, frustrations, and vision for Uganda.
He described Muhoozi as someone who wakes up every day focused on the country, ensuring stability and peace, and working to provide Ugandans with a nation where they can thrive without fear.
Kasujja noted that Muhoozi is often misunderstood because he avoids the spotlight, does not seek public attention, and lets his work speak for itself, a leadership style that contrasts sharply with the expectations of media and the public.
While acknowledging that Muhoozi is a polarizing figure, Kasujja portrayed him as a man of deep humanity who looks after soldiers’ families, supports young people, and works tirelessly to create a Uganda where citizens do not have to flee for safety.
He described the general’s vision as a prosperous Uganda in which everyone has a stake and can thrive collectively; emphasizing that nation-building requires contributions from many, not just one leader.
Kasujja also addressed the disconnect between perception and reality in Uganda, noting that the culture within the ruling NRM and security institutions emphasizes humility and letting work speak for itself. He said this approach often leaves good work unreported, leading to misinterpretation of leaders’ intentions and actions.
Despite the contradictions and challenges, Kasujja expressed cautious optimism. He highlighted Uganda’s turbulent history but pointed out that leaders like Muhoozi are striving to build a country where people can live, prosper, and plan for future generations.
He framed Muhoozi as a leader willing to take charge in a complex environment, emphasizing that his role is crucial but not solitary; nation-building, he suggested, is a collective responsibility.
Kasujja’s reflections offered a rare combination of insider knowledge, personal loyalty, and journalistic insight, presenting a vivid portrait of a man, a country, and a generation navigating the delicate balance between aspiration and reality.
He suggested that Uganda’s story, and Muhoozi’s role within it, is still unfolding, hinting at a future that could see profound change if leadership and vision continue to align. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
