Retired Lt. Gen. Henry Tumukunde, a former intelligence chief and 2021 presidential candidate, has called for reconciliation between President Yoweri Museveni and the people of Rukungiri District, despite longstanding political differences.
Gen. Tumukunde emphasized Rukungiri’s pivotal role in Museveni’s rise to power. He referenced key figures from the district that supported Museveni’s early political movements, including himself, Maj. Gen. (Rtd) Jim Muhwezi Katugugu, the late Gen. Aronda Nyakairima, and Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye, among others.
“Rukungiri people sacrificed greatly and stood with Museveni during the UPM days. That history should not be forgotten. Recognition of those contributions is essential,” Tumukunde stated.
He stressed the importance of peace and security through reconciliation, noting that President Museveni owes much to the people of Rukungiri.
“They sacrificed a lot; they deserve better,” he added.
Gen. Tumukunde, who is currently vying for the Rukungiri Municipality Parliamentary seat, also urged President Museveni to reconcile with detained opposition figure and former ally, Rtd. Col. Dr. Kizza Besigye. Besigye, the former president of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) party, remains incarcerated on treason charges.
Besigye was arrested in Kenya in a dramatic operation in November last year and brought back to Uganda. Initially tried in a military tribunal, his case, along with those of two co-accused, was later shifted to a civilian court following a landmark Supreme Court ruling that declared military trials for civilians unconstitutional.
Despite the ruling, Besigye has repeatedly been denied bail, a situation that has sparked criticism from rights groups and opposition politicians. President Museveni criticized the Supreme Court decision, calling it “a wrong ruling.”
Tumukunde challenged all Ugandans to embrace reconciliation, unity, and mutual respect, stating that peaceful and harmonious communities are essential for the country’s sustainable development.
CUE IN GEN. TUMUKUNDE…….ON RECONCILIATION……RR//
