Ssemujju accuses Muhoozi of provoking DRC tensions, linking his actions to burning of Uganda Embassy

Kira Municipality Member of Parliament, Ibrahim Ssemujju, has accused the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Muhoozi Kainerugaba, of inciting tensions between Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), linking his controversial remarks to the recent burning of Uganda’s embassy in Kinshasa.

Ssemujju described Kainerugaba’s comments supporting M23 rebels and mocking DRC as reckless actions that worsened Uganda’s already strained diplomatic relationship with its neighbour.

"The burning of our embassy was a direct result of the reckless conduct of our Chief of Defence Forces. He spoke in support of M23, and we nearly faced expulsion from Congo.

When we warned about the CDF's behaviour, some MPs dismissed it, but now the consequences are clear," Ssemujju remarked.

This development comes at a time when tensions in the region are escalating, with DRC facing conflict in its eastern provinces.

The absence of an accredited Ugandan ambassador to DRC for nearly four years has raised further concerns, particularly regarding the safety of Ugandans in the region.

The Leader of Opposition (LOP), Joel Ssenyonyi, has also voiced concerns over the deteriorating diplomatic relations between the two countries.

“There is a brewing conflict in Eastern DRC, and Uganda, being a neighbouring country, must be concerned about the safety of its nationals in the region. The lack of an accredited Ugandan ambassador for nearly four years is troubling. It suggests a strained relationship, especially considering Uganda’s past actions in the DRC,” Ssenyonyi stated.

Ssenyonyi referred to Uganda’s historical involvement in DRC conflicts, including accusations of supporting the M23 rebels, which the Ugandan government has repeatedly denied.

Despite the government’s denial, the claims have persisted, with Ugandan troops still stationed in DRC.

Additionally, the government is still dealing with the financial aftermath of a legal battle over a past military raid on DRC, which has led to Uganda paying substantial court-awarded penalties.

As tensions rise, Ssenyonyi has urged the government to provide greater transparency regarding Uganda’s position in the ongoing conflict in DRC, the security of Ugandans in the region, and the state of Uganda’s border security.

He stressed the importance of clear communication from the government to safeguard national security.

In addition to the diplomatic and security concerns, Ssenyonyi highlighted the financial obligations Uganda faces, including a Shs 287 billion allocation in the 2025/26 Budget Framework Paper for court awards stemming from Uganda’s involvement in past conflicts with DRC.

Uganda is also set to pay nearly Shs 1 trillion to DRC for the theft of its gold, a matter still being dealt with in the budget.

Ssemujju further questioned the government's plans for its infrastructure investments linking Uganda to Eastern DRC, urging the Minister for Regional Cooperation to provide updates on the ongoing projects, given the region’s instability.

The growing tension between Uganda and DRC, combined with ongoing financial and diplomatic challenges, leaves many questioning the future of the two countries' relationship and the safety of Ugandans living within DRC’s borders.