Uganda Tells Off Rwanda on Allegations of Supporting Rebels

The minister of foreign affairs Sam Kutesa has denied allegations that Uganda hosts any elements fighting the Rwandan government as alleged by Richard Sezibera – Rwanda’s government spokesman.

In a statement, Kutesa says that Rwanda ‘knows it very well as it has been a matter of confidential communication at the highest level’.

“Uganda does not and cannot allow anyone to operate from its territory that threatens a neighbor as alleged,” Kutesa said in the statement dated March 5.

Kutesa’s statement follows sweeping allegations by Sezibera earlier today in Rwanda’s capital Kigali.

Addressing a press conference in Kigali, Sezibera accused Uganda of harboring dissidents including forces allegedly working to overthrow President Paul Kagame’s government.

Sezibera alleged that some of those operating in Uganda include rebels allied to former Rwanda Defence Force Gen Kayumba Nyamwasa’s RNC (Rwanda National Congress) —  a rebel group linked to Lt Gen Kayumba Nyamwasa, a former chief of staff of the Rwandan Defence Forces, who fled and now lives in South Africa where has survived several assassination attempts.

However, Kutesa dismisses the allegations, saying the government of Uganda is aware of the importance of being at peace with her neighbors.