In a move heightening regional tensions, Uganda's Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has threatened military action against the eastern Congolese town of Bunia. On Saturday, February 15, 2025, Gen. Kainerugaba announced via X (formerly Twitter) that Uganda would attack Bunia unless "all forces" there surrendered their arms within 24 hours.
He asserted that this directive was issued with the authority of President Yoweri Museveni, who is also his father.Earlier that day, Gen. Kainerugaba claimed, without providing evidence, that individuals from the Bahima ethnic group were being targeted in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
He stated, "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!"
This ultimatum has raised concerns about the potential escalation of the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC into a broader regional war.
The area has been plagued by clashes between Congolese forces and the M23 rebels, a group reportedly backed by Rwanda. On Friday, an M23 leader claimed that the rebels had entered Bukavu, the second-largest city in eastern DRC, following their capture of Goma at the end of last month.
Uganda has previously supported the Congolese army in its fight against Islamist militants in the east, deploying additional troops in late January and early February.
However, United Nations experts have accused Uganda of also backing the M23 rebels, allegations that Uganda denies.The Congolese government has yet to officially respond to Gen. Kainerugaba's remarks.
Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, attending an African Union summit, stated that her government had "no comment to make" on the matter.This is not the first time Gen. Kainerugaba's statements have sparked diplomatic tensions.
In December 2024, he made controversial remarks threatening military action against Sudan, leading to demands for an official apology from the Sudanese government.
The international community is closely monitoring the situation, with calls for dialogue to prevent further escalation. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has urged all parties to engage in discussions to resolve the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC.
