Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces and Patriotic League Uganda (PLU) leader Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba has said political and social commentator Frank Gashumba will be summoned for discussions following remarks linked to the M23 rebel group.
In a statement shared on his social media platforms, Muhoozi directly referenced Gashumba’s alleged comments suggesting the possibility of “another M23” scenario in Uganda, describing the matter as one that would be handled internally within the PLU leadership structure.
“On my brother Frank Gashumba threatening to start another M23 in Uganda, we shall call him and discuss his issues in the PLU Central Committee,” Muhoozi stated.
He added, “Point of information, I outrank ndugu Gashumba both in Rwanda and Eastern DRC.”
The remarks have sparked renewed public debate, coming amid heightened sensitivity in the region over security dynamics involving the M23 rebel group, which has been active in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.
The group’s activities have long influenced diplomatic and security relations across the Great Lakes region, including Uganda’s border security posture.
Gashumba’s alleged comments, which circulated widely on social media, were interpreted by critics as politically charged rhetoric referencing identity and governance issues in Uganda.
Supporters, however, argue his statements were meant as political expression rather than a literal call to armed action.
Muhoozi’s response has now shifted the matter into a more formal political space within the PLU structure, suggesting an internal engagement rather than immediate legal or security action.
His reference to ranking has also drawn attention, given his prominent military position and political influence within the ruling establishment.
Security analysts note that public statements referencing armed groups in the Great Lakes region often trigger swift political reactions due to the fragile security environment along the Uganda–DRC border.
However, they also caution against conflating political rhetoric with actual militant intent without verified evidence.