Uganda has formally suspended all military cooperation with Germany, a move announced by the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) amidst allegations that the German ambassador was engaged in “subversive activities” within the East African country. The army’s statement specifically cited ambassador Matthias Schauer, criticizing European embassies for reportedly supporting “negative and traitorous groups.”
This diplomatic rift comes on the heels of increasing scrutiny from foreign diplomats regarding the behavior of Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the head of the army and the son of President Yoweri Museveni. Kainerugaba has garnered notoriety for his provocative social media presence, where he has made threats against opposition figures and recently boasted about torturing a bodyguard associated with the country’s main opposition leader.
In an official statement, UPDF spokesperson Chris Magezi declared, “The Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) has with immediate effect suspended all ongoing defense and military cooperation activities with the Federal Republic of Germany.” This announcement underscores the growing tensions between the Ugandan government and foreign diplomatic missions, particularly regarding human rights and governance issues as the nation approaches elections scheduled for January.
Kainerugaba did not hold back in expressing his discontent with the German representative, stating on social media, “We are having some issues with the current German ambassador to Uganda.” He further distanced the concerns from the German people, emphasizing his admiration for them while criticizing the ambassador as “wholly unqualified” for his role.
Reports indicate that European diplomats, including representatives from Germany, met with Salim Saleh, the president’s brother, to discuss concerns over Kainerugaba’s conduct. Saleh reportedly committed to addressing the situation with the military chief, signaling an internal response to rising international criticism directed at Uganda’s leadership.
This development marks a significant deterioration in Uganda’s historically stable relations with Germany, characterized by a partnership of “stability and trust,” according to the German embassy. Trade between the two countries amounted to approximately $335 million last year, predominantly consisting of German exports of machinery and chemical products to Uganda.
As Uganda navigates this diplomatic dispute, rights groups have voiced concerns over an intensified crackdown on dissent ahead of the upcoming elections, during which President Museveni seeks to extend his more than four-decade rule. The military’s abrupt decision to halt collaboration with Germany adds another layer of complexity to an already strained political atmosphere.
