Ugandan Military Chief Warns of Attack on Bunia as Tensions in Eastern Congo Soar
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Uganda’s Defence Forces and son of President Yoweri Museveni, has issued a stern ultimatum to the town of Bunia in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). In a post on X (formerly Twitter) dated February 15, 2025, Kainerugaba demanded that “all forces” in Bunia surrender their arms within 24 hours, threatening military action if his directive is not heeded.
This pronouncement has intensified concerns about a potential escalation of the ongoing conflict in the region. Kainerugaba, known for his provocative statements on foreign policy, claimed to have the backing of President Museveni for this ultimatum. However, a spokesperson for the Ugandan military declined to comment on the matter.
Earlier the same day, Kainerugaba alleged, without providing evidence, that individuals from the Bahima ethnic group were being targeted in the 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!” He further asserted, “Bunia will soon be in UPDF hands,” referring to the Uganda People’s Defence Force.
The Congolese government has remained reticent regarding Kainerugaba’s statements. Prime Minister Judith Suminwa, attending an African Union summit, stated that her government had “no comment to make” on the remarks.
This development has raised alarms about the possibility of the current conflict between Congolese forces and the Rwandan-backed March 23 Movement (M23) rebels expanding into a broader regional war. The M23 rebels have been advancing southward after capturing Goma, the largest city in eastern DRC, at the end of January 2025. They have now reached the outskirts of Bukavu, the second-largest city in the region, leading to chaotic scenes as residents and soldiers flee the area.
The situation is further complicated by Uganda’s recent military activities in the DRC. Earlier in February, Uganda deployed over 1,000 additional soldiers into eastern Congo near areas where the Congolese government is engaged in combat with M23 rebels. This move has heightened fears of a regional escalation, especially given the complex web of alliances and enmities in the Great Lakes region.
The African Union and the United Nations have expressed deep concern over the escalating tensions. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, speaking at the African Union summit, emphasized the necessity of avoiding regional escalation at all costs and underscored the importance of respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the DRC.
As the 24-hour deadline approaches, the international community is closely monitoring the situation. The potential for increased violence looms large, with the lives of countless civilians hanging in the balance. Diplomatic efforts are urgently needed to de-escalate the situation and prevent further bloodshed in a region that has long been plagued by conflict and instability.