Uganda has announced the immediate suspension of all military and defence cooperation with Germany, citing alleged subversive activities by German Ambassador Matthias Schauer. The decision, announced on Sunday by Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) spokesman Chris Magezi, marks a sharp escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two countries.
The suspension comes amid reports that European diplomats, including Schauer, expressed concerns over the conduct of General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, son of President Yoweri Museveni and head of the Ugandan army. Kainerugaba, widely seen as Museveni’s likely successor, is a controversial figure known for provocative social media posts. Recently, he made disturbing claims online about kidnapping and torturing the bodyguard of the main opposition leader—statements that alarmed international observers.
On social media platform X, Kainerugaba downplayed the broader diplomatic implications, stating, “We are having some issues with the current German ambassador to Uganda… It has nothing to do with the great German people, whom I admire a lot.”
Tensions reportedly heightened after European diplomats held a closed-door meeting with Museveni’s brother, General Salim Saleh, during which they raised concerns about Kainerugaba’s online threats and political behaviour. According to local media, Saleh promised to “rein in” his nephew’s actions.
The German embassy in Kampala has not issued an official response, but its website highlights a historically “stable and trusting” relationship with Uganda. Ambassador Schauer has served in his post since 2020, and Germany remains one of Uganda’s key partners, especially in trade, development, and military training. In 2023, bilateral trade was valued at approximately $335 million, with Uganda importing machinery and chemical products from Germany.
This diplomatic spat unfolds as Uganda braces for a tense election season in January 2026. Human rights groups have documented a rising crackdown on opposition voices, raising fears of deepening authoritarianism under Museveni’s nearly 40-year rule.
The future of Germany-Uganda relations now appears uncertain, with this military freeze potentially impacting broader cooperation and development efforts between the two nations.
