By Our Reporter
President Yoweri Museveni has reappointed a number of seasoned political figures and former government officials as Presidential Advisors, while also introducing new faces into his advisory team. Among the notable new appointees is veteran journalist and broadcaster Tony Owana, who has been named Presidential Advisor on NRA Archives.
Owana, a respected media figure, will be tasked with assisting the President in the documentation and preservation of the historical records of the National Resistance Army (NRA), reinforcing efforts to safeguard the liberation movement’s legacy.
The appointments, made under Article 172 of the Constitution, reflect Museveni’s continued trust in familiar cadres as he consolidates his political agenda ahead of the 2026 general elections. The advisors, considered public servants, receive salaries, allowances, and other state benefits including housing and official transport.
Among those reappointed is former Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda, who retains his position as Special Envoy for Special Duties in the President’s Office. Rugunda, a veteran diplomat and statesman, remains a key figure in Museveni’s strategic political network.
Hajjat Hadijah Namyalo, head of the Office of the NRM National Chairman at Kyambogo and a key player in youth mobilisation under the Bazzukulu ba Museveni initiative, was reappointed as Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs. Her work has been crucial in rallying young voters, especially in urban and peri-urban centers.
Hajj Abdul Nadduli, a bush war veteran and former Minister without Portfolio, continues as Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Mobilisation, reflecting Museveni’s reliance on historical figures for grassroots influence.
Other reappointments include:
- Abbey Walusimbi, Senior Presidential Advisor on Diaspora Affairs, known for his work with Ugandan migrant communities.
- Monica Azuba Ntege, former Works and Transport Minister, retained as Senior Presidential Advisor without a specific portfolio.
- Prof. Ephraim Kamuntu, former Justice Minister, reappointed Senior Presidential Advisor on Political Affairs.
- Dr. Sheikh Mohamed Ahmed Kisuule, former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, named Senior Presidential Advisor on Middle East Affairs.
- Maj. Gen. Kiiza Ali (Rtd), former Air Force officer and presidential pilot, now Senior Presidential Advisor on Air Force matters.
- David Kenneth Mafabi, long-serving advisor on regional integration and civic engagement, retained.
- Ssebunya Robert, retained as Senior Presidential Advisor on Buganda Matters.
- Lt. Col. Anthony Kyakabale, a returned exile, appointed Senior Presidential Advisor on Reconciliation.
- John Arimpa Kigyagi, former deputy chair of the NRM Electoral Commission, appointed Senior Presidential Advisor on Environment.
- Florence Mutyabule, Senior Presidential Advisor on Poverty Alleviation (Busoga Sub-region).
- Dr. Beatrice Wabudeya, Senior Presidential Advisor on Veterinary Services.
- Gertrude Njuba Norah, a historical figure from the bush war, now Senior Presidential Advisor on Lands and Political Affairs.
Several advisors, including Lt. Col. Ambako Kibrai and Dr. Ssekiboobo Dan, have been attached to the RDCs’ Secretariat to strengthen research and mobilisation activities.
Additionally, Mary Kawuma, Francis Okello Opio (Lango Zone), and Luttamaguzi Patrick (Private Secretary, NRA Archives) were among those retained in key advisory capacities.
Have An Advert Or Article You Want Us To Publish? Email: swiftnewsug@gmail.com