Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Army Chief, expressed fatigue over fighting the Nuer tribesmen of South Sudan, suggesting they should surrender to avoid destruction. He controversially requested 1,000 cows to halt hostilities. His remarks have drawn international criticism and heightened diplomatic tensions; previous threats have incited official complaints from neighboring nations. Kainerugaba’s history of provocative statements raises concerns for regional stability.
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the Chief of Defense Forces of the Uganda People’s Defence Forces, expressed his weariness of combating the Nuer tribesmen of South Sudan through a statement on his social media on Saturday. He suggested that the Nuer should capitulate to avoid potential destruction at the hands of Ugandan forces and provocatively requested 1,000 cows to cease hostilities. He stated, “I am tired of killing Nuer. Tell your leader Riek Machar to come and kneel down before ‘our’ President H.E Salva Kiir.”
In earlier posts, Kainerugaba claimed that Ugandan troops are stationed in South Sudan predominantly for the protection of President Salva Kiir and securing Juba. He emphasized the UPDF’s recognition of Kiir as the valid president, warning that any actions against him would be interpreted as acts of aggression towards Uganda.
Kainerugaba’s public statements have attracted significant criticism due to their inflammatory nature, having previously led to diplomatic tensions with neighboring countries. For instance, a controversial tweet from December 2022 directed threats towards white mercenaries in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, prompting an official diplomatic complaint from the DRC. Furthermore, Sudan condemned his comments, describing them as reckless and a threat to regional security, thus calling for condemnation by international bodies.
His history of provocative remarks includes threats to invade Kenya, which resulted in an official apology from President Museveni. Kainerugaba’s long-standing involvement in South Sudan dates back to the political turmoil of 2013, when the UPDF intervened ostensibly to secure Juba International Airport amid escalating violence, and allegations of their military methods have sparked accusations of war crimes.
His social media conduct reflects a tendency for public outbursts that often incite controversy, with many of his statements subsequently deleted following backlash. This pattern, manifesting a lack of diplomatic tact, raises concerns about the implications of his rhetoric on regional stability and international diplomatic relations.
Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’s recent statements reveal his frustration with the ongoing conflict involving the Nuer tribes of South Sudan. His provocative rhetoric, including demands for surrender and compensation, exacerbates diplomatic tensions. Historical context indicates his controversial remarks have previously resulted in significant international response, highlighting the risks associated with such public statements by military leaders. Constructive dialogue is urgently needed to alleviate tensions and avoid further conflict.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
