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Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has said that matters concerning opposition figure Dr Kizza Besigye will be handled by Gen Salim Saleh, adding that anyone seeking forgiveness should engage with the senior army officer.
Gen Muhoozi made the remarks while commenting on the situation surrounding Dr Besigye, a long-time government critic who has faced several political and legal battles over the years.
According to Gen Muhoozi, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has given Gen Salim Saleh authority to handle certain matters involving individuals seeking reconciliation with the government.
“Dr Kizza Besigye will be handled by Afande Saleh. If he wants forgiveness, he should talk to Afande Saleh. Mzee has given Afande SS those powers,” Gen Muhoozi said.
The statement has attracted public attention because of Gen Salim Saleh’s long-standing influence within Uganda’s political and security circles.
Gen Saleh, who is President Museveni’s younger brother, has over the years been involved in various political and security matters, often playing a role in reconciliation efforts.
Dr Besigye, a former presidential candidate and leader of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), has had a long political history with President Museveni.
The two worked together during the early years of the National Resistance Movement before later becoming political rivals.
For decades, Besigye has challenged Museveni’s leadership through elections, political mobilisation and public criticism of government policies.
His political journey has been marked by arrests, court cases and confrontations with security agencies during different periods.
Gen Muhoozi’s remarks have renewed discussions about possible dialogue, reconciliation and the future relationship between Besigye and the government.
Supporters of political reconciliation have previously called for peaceful engagement between the government and opposition leaders to resolve long-standing disagreements.
The statement also comes at a time when questions continue to be raised about the treatment of opposition politicians and the possibility of political settlements.
Gen Muhoozi has previously made public comments on various political issues, attracting attention because of his position as the country’s top military officer.
His latest remarks suggest that any discussions concerning Besigye’s future would involve Gen Saleh as the person authorised to handle the matter.
The comments have sparked reactions from different sections of society, with some viewing them as a possible opening for dialogue.
Others have questioned the idea of forgiveness in political matters, arguing that issues involving citizens and leaders should follow established legal and constitutional processes.
Meanwhile, Gen Muhoozi’s statement has placed renewed focus on the role played by senior government figures in resolving political disagreements.
Dr Besigye’s supporters have continued to call for justice, fair treatment and respect for political freedoms.
As discussions continue, attention remains on whether any engagement between Besigye and Gen Saleh will take place and what impact it could have on Uganda’s political landscape.
The remarks by Gen Muhoozi have added another dimension to the long-running relationship between the government and one of its most prominent critics.
