Dr Ruhakana Rugunda has been appointed as Uganda's new Prime Minster in a cabinet reshuffle. He replaces Kinkiizi West MP Amama Mbabazi who has been the prime Minister since June 2011. 

In a letter written by President Yoweri Museveni to the Speaker of Parliament, Ms Rebecca Kadaga, Dr Rugunda who has been the health minister has been appointed to replace Mr Amama Mbabazi.

"By virtue of the powers vested in the president of the Republic of Uganda by article 108A(1) of the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, I have with immediate effect decided to appoint Dr Ruhakana Rugunda as the new Prime Minister of Uganda,” the September 18, 2014 letter reads in part.

"I therefore hereby forward the names and curriculum vitae of Dr Ruhakana Rugunda to you for the required parliamentary approval. I thank the Rt. Hon. Amama Mbabazi for the contribution he has made to this country,” the letter further reads.

The Uganda Media Center boss, Mr Ofwono Opondo confirmed the development and said the reshuffle only affects the position of Prime minister.

Mr Ofwono further said that the minister of state for health, Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye will replace Dr Rugunda’s as the Acting health minister.