By Nasser Kayanja
The Chairman of the Council of Abavandimwe, Frank Gashumba, has dismissed allegations that he threatened to bring the M23 rebel group into Uganda if Victoria University Vice Chancellor Dr. Lawrence Muganga was not appointed State Minister for Foreign Affairs.
Gashumba says the claims are based on an old video that has been taken out of context and wrongly linked to the recent controversy surrounding Dr. Muganga’s rejection by Parliament’s Appointments Committee.
The committee reportedly declined to approve Dr. Muganga’s appointment after concerns were raised about his alleged dual citizenship status.
Following the development, a video resurfaced on social media in which Gashumba appeared to reference the M23 rebel group, prompting criticism and speculation about his remarks.
However, Gashumba clarified that the video was recorded about three years ago during an Equal Opportunities Commission function and had no connection to Dr. Muganga’s appointment or the current political situation.
According to Gashumba, he was at the time highlighting the dangers of discrimination against Ugandans of Banyarwanda origin and warning that continued exclusion could create tensions within society.
“I was giving an example of what could happen if Ugandans continued segregating Banyarwanda born in Uganda. My message was about promoting inclusion and equal treatment for all citizens,” he explained.
He noted that the concerns raised then were eventually addressed by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, who issued guidance aimed at easing citizenship verification challenges. Gashumba said the President directed that Ugandan citizenship could also be confirmed through community elders and local leaders where necessary.
Gashumba reassured Ugandans that his remarks were never intended to threaten national security or support any armed group, but rather to advocate for the rights and recognition of Ugandans of Banyarwanda descent.
He urged the public to avoid misinterpreting old statements and linking them to unrelated current events.