Chief of Defence Forces Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba has sparked debate after asking Ugandans to focus on the legacy of the late Dr. Bata instead of discussions surrounding opposition politician Dr. Kizza Besigye.

Gen Muhoozi made the remarks in a statement shared on social media, where he described the late Dr. Bata as a hero and said he was not interested in hearing about Besigye.

“Tell me about the hero, late Dr. Bata. I don’t want to hear about Kizza Besigye,” Gen Muhoozi stated.

The comment comes at a time when Dr. Kizza Besigye remains at the centre of a high-profile court case in which he is facing treason-related charges over allegations that he and others plotted to overthrow the Ugandan government. The allegations are being contested in court.

Prosecution has told court that it intends to rely on evidence including recordings and other materials which it says are linked to alleged meetings about overthrowing the government. The defence has challenged aspects of the case and Besigye has denied wrongdoing.

Besigye, a retired military officer and longtime opposition leader, has been one of President Yoweri Museveni’s most prominent political challengers for many years.

His arrest and trial have attracted national and international attention, with supporters questioning the charges while prosecutors maintain that the case should proceed through the judicial process.

Gen Muhoozi’s remarks appear to shift attention away from the ongoing political debate surrounding Besigye and toward recognition of individuals he believes deserve to be remembered for their contribution to Uganda.

By referring to Dr. Bata as a hero, Gen Muhoozi highlighted his desire for public discussions to focus on national figures and their achievements.

The statement has generated reactions from different sections of society, with some people discussing the significance of honouring historical personalities while others focusing on the reference to Besigye.

Gen Muhoozi has previously used his social media platforms to comment on political, security and cultural issues, often attracting widespread public debate.

His latest remarks come amid continued conversations about leadership, national history and the role of different personalities in Uganda’s development.

Dr. Kizza Besigye’s political journey has spanned several decades, including multiple presidential contests and leadership roles in Uganda’s opposition movement.

Before joining opposition politics, Besigye served in the Uganda military and was once a close associate of President Museveni before later becoming one of his strongest political challengers.

The current court case has added another chapter to the long-running public debate surrounding Besigye’s political activities and relationship with the government.

Meanwhile, Gen Muhoozi’s call to discuss Dr. Bata has created renewed interest in the late figure’s background and contribution.

The Chief of Defence Forces has continued to use public statements to express his views on national heroes, political figures and issues affecting Uganda.

As the Besigye case continues through court, the allegations against him remain matters for judicial determination.

For now, Gen Muhoozi’s message is centred on recognising the late Dr. Bata while making clear his position that he does not want public attention focused on Besigye.

The statement has once again highlighted the strong political differences between supporters of the government and opposition figures in Uganda.

It also demonstrates how comments from senior national figures can quickly become part of wider discussions about history, politics and justice.