General Muhoozi Kainerugaba of Uganda threatened to attack Bunia, DR Congo, if local forces don’t surrender arms within 24 hours. He raised concerns over attacks on the Bahima ethnic group, expressing confidence in Uganda’s military’s capabilities. His inflammatory comments are set against a backdrop of conflict involving M23 rebels and raise fears of further regional unrest.
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the chief of Uganda’s defense forces, issued a warning on X, indicating an intention to attack the eastern Congo town of Bunia unless local forces surrender all arms within 24 hours. He claimed to have the backing of his father, President Yoweri Museveni. Uganda’s military spokesperson declined to comment on the threat.
Kainerugaba attributed his aggressive stance to perceived attacks against the Bahima ethnic group, stating, “My people, the Bahima are being attacked. That’s a very dangerous situation for those attacking my people. No one on this earth can kill my people and think he will not suffer for it!” He confidently asserted that Bunia would soon fall under the control of the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF).
His comments raise concerns about escalating tensions in the region, particularly with ongoing clashes between Congolese forces and M23 rebels supported by Rwanda. The latter had recently captured Goma and moved into Bukavu, indicating a potential escalation of hostilities.
Reports suggest that Uganda has recently increased its military presence in eastern Congo to combat Islamist militants, although U.N. experts have indicated Uganda’s backing of the M23 rebels. Previously, Kainerugaba had expressed solidarity with Rwandan President Paul Kagame despite allegations of Rwandan military involvement with the M23.
Kainerugaba’s outspoken nature and inflammatory remarks have raised alarms. In 2022, he threatened to invade Kenya and made controversial statements toward Uganda’s opposition leader, Bobi Wine. He later claimed such comments were made in jest, yet they continue to provoke significant discussions about regional stability.
The article highlights the threatening statement made by General Muhoozi Kainerugaba regarding an impending attack on Bunia unless local forces disarm. This escalation is linked to ongoing ethnic tensions and conflicts involving M23 rebels, raising concerns about regional stability and Uganda’s military strategy in eastern Congo. Kainerugaba’s history of provocative statements adds to the tension in an already volatile area.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com
