Museveni drops 28 long serving ministers in the new cabinet

In a major executive overhaul marking the commencement of Uganda’s new 2026–2031 political term, President Yoweri Museveni has dropped a total of 28 ministers from his Cabinet.

The sweeping changes, announced by official statement issued under Articles 108 and related provisions of the 1995 Constitution, signals a forceful executive reset as Uganda’s 12th Parliament begins its legislative cycle.

While long-standing pillars such as Vice President Jessica Alupo and Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja were retained, the reshuffle introduces dramatic structural changes across several vital ministries.

The extensive restructuring has caught several veteran heavyweights in its crosshairs, shaking up positions that have remained without being changed for years.

The most notable exits include the long-serving Finance Minister Matia Kasaija, Foreign Affairs Minister Gen. (Rtd) Jeje Odongo, and Gender Minister Betty Amongi.

In an equally historic shift, Second Deputy Prime Minister Gen. Moses Ali, who has served continuously as a minister since the regime of former President Idi Amin, was also dropped from the executive lineup.

The wave of placement extended deeply into other critical sectors, claiming Energy Minister Ruth Nankabirwa, Government Chief Whip Hamson Obua, Public Service Minister Muruuli Mukasa, and Local Government Minister Raphael Magyezi.

The security and law enforcement sectors were changed as well, with Internal Affairs State Minister Gen. David Muhoozi being relieved of his duties.

Furthermore, Defence Minister Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth was replaced following his election as the Speaker of Parliament.

According to the full executive brief, the remaining individuals of the purge spanned a wide range of senior portfolios and state ministries, including Peter Lokeris who served as the Karamoja Affairs Minister.

Also dismissed from their posts were Francis Mwebesa (Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives) and Sam Cheptoris (Water and Environment). The regional and state-level ministries faced an equally heavy clearing, with the misplacement of Dr Kenneth Omona (State for Northern Uganda), Florence Nambozo (State for Karamoja), Jenipher Namuyangu (State for Bunyoro Affairs), Fred Bwiino Kyagulaga (State for Agriculture), and Hellen Adoa (State for Fisheries).

The education and investment sectors were not spared neither, as Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu (State for Primary Education) and Evelyne Anite (State for Privatisation and Investment) were both dropped.

They were joined by John Mulimba (State for Regional Affairs), Peace Mutuuzo (State for Gender and Culture), Hellen Asamo (State for Disability Affairs), Gidudu Mafabi (State for Elderly Affairs), and Godfrey Kabbyanga (State for National Guidance).

Rounding out the final list of 28 dropped ministers were Obiga Kania (State for Urban Development), Martin Mugarra (State for Tourism and Antiquities), Fredrick Gume (State for Cooperatives), and Musa Ecweru (State for Works).

Ushindi Winsky