By Aggrey Baba
[When the drum beats too loudly, it is about to burst], an old Acholi proverb say. Former Aruu County Member of Parliament, Hon. Odong Otto, has sparked national debate after calling for a special day of prayers for the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
Otto, known for his bold and fearless approach to politics, took to his X (formerly Twitter) account, saying “There is a need for a day of prayers for @Mkainerugaba_ something is not adding up.”
Over the past months, Gen. Muhoozi has turned his alleged X account into a battlefield of words, frequently posting provocative and sometimes alarming tweets.
Many Ugandans, including opposition leaders, civil society actors, and even ordinary citizens, are concerned about his growing habit of issuing threats online.
One of his most controversial tweets was directed at opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine. In it, he warned
“Kabobi, we shall crush you. You will not disturb our peace,” and later threatened to behead the opposition leader.
In another instance, he made an alarming statement about Kenya, claiming that Uganda’s army could take over Nairobi within two weeks, a comment that sparked diplomatic tensions.
The Kenyan government was forced to respond, downplaying the remarks but taking note of the reckless rhetoric.
More recently, Muhoozi tweeted and told Ugandans to brace for veteran opposition leader, and four-time presidential candidate, Dr. kizza Besigye’s hanging on hero’s day, asserting that they had already identified the place where he would be hanged from.
The first son han been making veiled threats against journalists, civil society organizations, and even fellow government officials who question his actions. This behavior has led many to ask whether the General is fit to hold such a sensitive position as the head of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF).
Hon. Odong Otto’s call for prayers is significant because he is not known for mincing words or playing political games. Throughout his career, Otto has been a fearless critic of government excesses, corruption, and human rights abuses.
In 2019, he was arrested for leading a protest against land grabbing in Acholi, where he accused government officials and investors of displacing poor Ugandans. He has also clashed with security agencies over what he calls “state-sponsored injustice.”
His defiance was further seen, five years ago, when he dramatically walked out of Parliament to protest unfair government policies. On multiple occasions, he challenged the ruling party, despite the risks involved.
Otto has always portrayed himself as a man who speaks truth to power, regardless of the consequences.
With Otto’s call for prayers, many Ugandans are left wondering if Gen. Muhoozi simply playing politics on social media, or there a deeper issue at hand.
Some believe his behavior is a calculated strategy to stay relevant. Others fear that his reckless talk could have real consequences, both for Uganda and its neighbors.
[When elders start whispering, the wise pay attention]. Perhaps Otto’s call for prayers is not just political talk but a genuine warning that something is indeed wrong. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
