Rwakitura, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni has welcomed former Inspector General of Police Gen Kale Kayihura to his country home in Rwakitura, a meeting that has ignited widespread speculation about the future of their relationship. Kayihura, who recently retired from the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), was once considered Museveni’s “blue-eyed boy” and played a crucial role in the National Resistance Army (NRA) war that brought Museveni to power in 1986.
The meeting comes after a tumultuous period for Kayihura, whose career took a dramatic turn in 2018 when he was arrested and charged with offenses related to the illegal repatriation of Rwandan refugees. This incident occurred amid rising tensions between Uganda and Rwanda, leading to mutual accusations of espionage and economic sabotage that strained relations between the two countries.
The discussions held at Museveni’s residence were private, but analysts suggest that this meeting could signal a potential reconciliation between the President and his former confidant. “Kayihura was not just a key figure in Museveni’s security apparatus; he was a symbol of loyalty and trust within the NRM,” noted political analyst Simpson Tumwine.
As Uganda approaches the 2026 elections, this meeting could be interpreted as an attempt by Museveni to consolidate his political base, especially given Kayihura’s influential background in the NRM stronghold of Kisoro. The reunion has also reignited discussions about the possibility of improved relations between Uganda and Rwanda, raising hopes for broader reconciliation.
While neither Museveni nor Kayihura has publicly commented on the meeting, it is seen as a significant step towards mending a fraught chapter in their relationship. For Kayihura, this encounter may mark the beginning of a gradual return to political relevance.