The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has issued a strong warning to Joseph Kony's former Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) members threatening to resume insurgency in Northern Uganda.
The group recently declared its intentions to “go back to the bush,” sparking alarm among security forces and local communities.
Maj. Gen. Felix Busizoori, Commander of the UPDF’s 4th Infantry Division, responded firmly: “Don’t event think about going to the bush. We shall pick you like a grasshopper. In the first two days, you will be crushed.”
According to Gen. Felix Busizoori, he noticed that the few elements were talking because they wanted something to eat due to political situation but were not serious to return to the bush, stating they are not taking the matter for granted.
He however appealed to those who made such statements to withdraw it, ''but we are going to carry out investigations because we cannot take it for granted maybe there could be some plan to restart again the rebellion"
"The UPDF has developed capacity to defend all corners of Uganda so those who are decived by bad elements especially these young boys who make such statements be assured that UPDF has capacity to defend; ''I want to appeal to the people who made such statement to withdraw it but we are going to carry out investigations because we cannot take it for granted maybe there could be some plan to restart again the rebellion." - He stated.
Northern Uganda remains fragile after decades of conflict, leaving thousands dead and millions displaced.
Even threats of rebellion can destabilise the region, hinder development, and spread fear.
Security analysts highlight a concerning trend across Africa: governments “clone” rebel movements to manipulate conflicts and extend political power. This means even empty threats of returning to the bush could spark wider insecurity if exploited.
The Former LRA warlords were wrong to threaten rebellion. Their rhetoric endangers the future of the Acholi people, risks peace, and threatens the stability and development of Northern Uganda. The UPDF’s message is clear: armed rebellion is futile and dangerous.
