Museveni redeploys Lumumba and Aceng in ICT, Chief Whip Shake-Up

President Yoweri Museveni has formally swapped Justine Kasule Lumumba and Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng in a surprise Cabinet adjustment that has seen Aceng redeployed as Government Chief Whip while Lumumba takes over the ICT ministry.

The move comes just hours after legal concerns emerged over Lumumba’s eligibility to serve as Government Chief Whip despite not being a member of the 12th Parliament.

Aceng had earlier confirmed the ICT appointment and thanked Museveni for the trust placed in her.

However, late Wednesday night, Aceng announced she had officially been redeployed as Government Chief Whip.

“I am humbled by H.E. @KagutaMuseveni’s trust in redeploying me as Government Chief Whip for 2026-2031,” Aceng posted on X.

“I commit to no sleep, disciplined service and unity in the House,” she added.

Her confirmation effectively settled speculation over the position after Lumumba separately announced she had been redeployed to the ICT ministry.

“Thank you H.E. @KagutaMuseveni for redeploying me to the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance. I am honored by the trust and ready to serve with dedication towards Uganda’s digital transformation agenda,” Lumumba wrote on social media. Uganda Travel Information

The switch followed criticism led by lawyer and activist Sarah Bireete, who argued that Parliament’s Rules of Procedure require the Government Chief Whip to be appointed “from among Members of Parliament representing the ruling party.”

Lumumba is currently not a member of Parliament, raising questions about her eligibility for the role.

The last-minute adjustment appears aimed at avoiding a possible legal challenge while still retaining Lumumba in a strategic Cabinet position overseeing Uganda’s digital transformation and government communication agenda.

Aceng, one of Museveni’s most trusted ministers, now moves from public health management to frontline parliamentary mobilisation and coordination of government business in the House.