By Spy Uganda
General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, senior Ugandan military officer and son of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, has reignited regional political debate after issuing strong statements pledging support for Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) President Felix Tshisekedi and warning against the return of former President Joseph Kabila.
In a series of pointed comments, Muhoozi said:
“My big brother, H.E. Felix Tshisekedi, is President of DRC and I will support him as much as possible.”
He further criticized Kabila’s past leadership, particularly regarding security issues in Eastern Congo:
“Kabila allowed ADF to subsist in Eastern DRC for 17 years. He never allowed us to take action against them. H.E. Tshisekedi is much better than him in that respect.”
Muhoozi concluded with a firm warning against Kabila’s potential political comeback:
“I will not let Joseph Kabila become a President of DRC again! You can forget about that.”
These remarks have drawn immediate regional and international attention, with analysts warning of possible diplomatic implications.
Joseph Kabila ruled the DRC from 2001, after the assassination of his father Laurent Kabila, until 2019. Despite stepping down, he remains a significant political figure behind the scenes, and there have been persistent reports suggesting he may seek a return to power in future elections.
Muhoozi’s public endorsement of Tshisekedi and criticism of Kabila comes at a sensitive time for both Uganda and the DRC, countries that have historically collaborated — particularly on joint military operations against rebel groups like the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) — while also navigating occasional diplomatic tensions.
Jean-Claude Kasongo, a Congolese political analyst, expressed concern over Muhoozi’s comments, stressing DRC’s sovereignty:
“This is a serious matter. DRC is a sovereign country, and our leadership choices are for our people to decide, not foreigners.”
Observers note that Muhoozi, known for his candid and sometimes controversial social media posts, has previously stirred debate over his outspoken views on regional politics, including matters concerning Kenya and Rwanda.
Thus far, there has been no official response from either the Ugandan or Congolese governments regarding Muhoozi’s statements. Joseph Kabila has also remained silent, leaving uncertainty over whether he will respond or alter any political plans.
Political analysts warn that while Muhoozi’s statements reflect personal or factional sentiments, they could complicate Uganda-DRC relations at a time when regional security cooperation is crucial, especially in the troubled eastern provinces of Congo.
As Muhoozi continues to assert himself more prominently on regional matters, many are watching closely to see how his growing influence might shape Uganda’s foreign relations and regional dynamics in the years ahead.
