A tweet from Ugandan General Muhoozi Kainerugaba has sparked controversy, as he praised the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) while suggesting that they should use more force against individuals in red uniforms.
In the tweet, posted approximately 10 hours before this report, Kainerugaba wrote:
“JATT is doing a great job! But they are not beating criminals enough. Anyone found in a red uniform should learn to fear JATT.”
The statement has drawn sharp reactions from the public, political figures, and human rights activists, who have raised concerns about potential abuses of power.
Some have interpreted his remarks as a direct threat against opposition supporters, particularly those affiliated with the National Unity Platform (NUP), led by musician-turned-politician Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine.
The NUP is known for its signature red attire.
JATT, a specialized security unit under Uganda’s Chieftaincy of Military Intelligence (CMI), has long been accused of operating with impunity.
Human rights organizations have documented reports of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances, and torture allegedly linked to the group.
Opposition leaders and activists have condemned Kainerugaba’s tweet, calling it an endorsement of state violence. Joel Ssenyonyi, the NUP spokesperson, responded on social media:
Meanwhile, government officials have remained largely silent on the matter, and there has been no official response from Uganda’s military or security agencies.
Kainerugaba, the son of President Yoweri Museveni, has been a controversial figure in Ugandan politics, frequently using Twitter to share his views, sometimes in ways that raise political tensions.
His remarks often fuel speculation about his political ambitions, including the possibility of succeeding his father.
As the debate over his latest statement unfolds, human rights groups are calling for clarity on JATT’s mandate and urging the Ugandan government to reaffirm its commitment to the rule of law and protection of civil liberties.
The tweet remains online, continuing to fuel discussions about Uganda’s political and security landscape.
