Uganda's top general says Joseph Kabila can't rule Congo again. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba openly backed President Félix Tshisekedi on social media last Friday. He criticized Kabila for letting rebel groups operate freely during his presidency and promised strong support for Tshisekedi, calling him "my big brother." These comments came right after Rwanda and Congo signed peace principles with US help.
Congo matters greatly to Uganda's economy. The nation ranks as Uganda's second-largest export destination after Kenya. Uganda sent about $500 million worth of goods to Congo last year, and unofficial trade adds another $200 million to that total. Congo joined the East African Community in 2022, which boosted business between both countries even more.
Tshisekedi differs from Kabila on security issues. He allowed Uganda's military to enter Congo and fight rebel groups - something Kabila never permitted. Reports link Kabila to armed groups that harm trade routes. Kabila recently visited Goma, a rebel-held city, saying he felt safer there than elsewhere in Congo. Uganda clearly prefers working with leaders who want peace and trade rather than those who might bring back conflict.
Congo matters greatly to Uganda's economy. The nation ranks as Uganda's second-largest export destination after Kenya. Uganda sent about $500 million worth of goods to Congo last year, and unofficial trade adds another $200 million to that total. Congo joined the East African Community in 2022, which boosted business between both countries even more.
Tshisekedi differs from Kabila on security issues. He allowed Uganda's military to enter Congo and fight rebel groups - something Kabila never permitted. Reports link Kabila to armed groups that harm trade routes. Kabila recently visited Goma, a rebel-held city, saying he felt safer there than elsewhere in Congo. Uganda clearly prefers working with leaders who want peace and trade rather than those who might bring back conflict.
