KAMPALA, Uganda – President Yoweri Museveni has appointed State Minister for Foreign Affairs (Regional Cooperation) Haruna Kyeyune Kasolo as the acting Minister of Foreign Affairs pending the appointment of a substantive minister.
In an appointment letter dated June 22, 2026, President Museveni invoked Article 99(1) of the Constitution to designate Kasolo to temporarily oversee the ministry’s affairs.
“In exercise of the powers vested in the President by Article 99(1) of the Constitution, I hereby appoint you as Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs in the absence of a substantive minister,” Museveni stated in the letter addressed to Kasolo.
Appointment Follows Foreign Affairs Leadership Gap
Kasolo’s appointment comes amid an unusual leadership vacuum at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs following the recent Cabinet reshuffle.
President Museveni had earlier nominated Adonia Ayebare to head the ministry. However, the appointment attracted public and legal scrutiny over allegations concerning Ayebare’s citizenship status.
Ayebare was among four ministerial nominees whose appointments were questioned over claims that they hold dual citizenship. Under the Uganda Citizenship and Immigration Control Act, individuals with dual citizenship are restricted from holding certain public offices, including Cabinet and State Minister positions.
The controversy has delayed the installation of a substantive Foreign Affairs Minister, prompting the President to appoint Kasolo in an acting capacity to ensure continuity within the ministry.
Kasolo to Oversee Uganda’s Foreign Relations
As Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kasolo will be responsible for supervising the ministry’s day-to-day operations, diplomatic engagements, and implementation of Uganda’s foreign policy agenda.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs plays a critical role in managing Uganda’s relationships with foreign governments, international organizations, and regional institutions.
Kasolo is expected to coordinate Uganda’s diplomatic initiatives and represent the country on key regional and international matters while awaiting the appointment of a substantive minister.
Maintaining Uganda’s Regional and International Engagements
The interim appointment comes at a time when Uganda remains actively involved in several regional and global initiatives, including peace and security efforts in the Great Lakes region and ongoing East African Community integration programs.
Government officials say the appointment is intended to ensure uninterrupted operations at the ministry and maintain Uganda’s diplomatic commitments during the transition period.
