What Really Happened to Amama Mbabazi After His Rift with President Museveni?

Amama Mbabazi’s political journey has been full of ups and downs, changing from friends to rivals and back again in Uganda’s politics.Once hailed as President Yoweri Museveni’s closest confidant, Mbabazi's downfall began when he expressed intentions to vie for the presidency, a move that did not sit well with the Ugandan leader.Mbabazi, popularly known as the “super minister” during his time in the National Resistance Movement (NRM), saw his fortunes change in 2014 when Museveni relieved him of his duties as Prime Minister.Museveni accused him of engaging in “divisive politics,” a charge many interpreted as a tactic to suppress Mbabazi’s growing influence within the party. This dismissal marked the beginning of a public fallout between the two political heavyweights.In 2016, Mbabazi threw his hat into the ring, running for president as an independent candidate. His campaign was marked by fervent speeches calling for change and youth empowerment, but the electorate's response was tepid.He garnered only 1.39% of the vote, finishing third. Many analysts described his loss as a blow to his political ambitions.Despite the defeat, Mbabazi's political journey did not end there. In 2021, he made a surprising announcement—his return to the NRM. He emphasized the need for unity and hinted at playing a more significant role in shaping Uganda’s future. This move was widely seen as a strategic step toward mending fences with Museveni and reviving his political career.President Museveni further extended an olive branch by appointing Mbabazi as a special envoy to South Sudan and Ethiopia. This position places him at the forefront of Uganda’s regional diplomatic engagements, a role that underscores his enduring relevance in the country’s politics.During Mbabazi’s 50th wedding anniversary celebration, Museveni praised him and his wife, Jacqueline, for their contributions to Uganda’s progress. This public acknowledgment was interpreted as a sign of thawing relations between the two leaders.Mbabazi’s political journey, marked by highs and lows, underscores the complexities of Ugandan politics. From being a trusted ally to a rival and back to a key figure in the NRM, his story reflects the challenges of navigating power dynamics in a landscape dominated by Museveni’s long rule.