Uganda’s army chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a 24-hour ultimatum threatening to attack Bunia, a town in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
His warning comes amid allegations that members of the Bahima ethnic group are being targeted and killed in the region.
Kainerugaba’s statement has sparked fears of a wider regional conflict involving Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC.
The situation in eastern Congo has been tense, with various armed groups operating in the area, leading to ongoing instability. Uganda has previously conducted military operations in the DRC against rebel groups, but a direct attack on Bunia would mark a significant escalation.
Regional and international stakeholders are closely monitoring the situation, urging restraint to prevent further violence. Diplomatic efforts may be necessary to de-escalate tensions and address concerns about ethnic violence.