The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have publicly accused the German Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Mathias Schauer, of secretly supporting rebel activities aimed at destabilizing the country.
In a statement issued on Friday, Colonel Chris Magezi, the Acting Director of Defence Public Information, revealed that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) have been closely monitoring the German Ambassador’s alleged undiplomatic practices in various parts of Uganda.
”The intelligence services are aware of his actions, which clearly go against the spirit of the 1961 Vienna Diplomatic Conventions. We are particularly concerned about the illegal and secret activities of the German ambassador,” Col Magezi stated.
Col Magezi did not provide specific details of the alleged activities but emphasized that the government is addressing the matter through official diplomatic channels and warned against any foreign interference in Uganda’s internal affairs, stating that such actions undermine national sovereignty.
The UPDF further revealed that security forces have arrested multiple suspects in recent months over alleged plans to carry out armed attacks, bomb public places, and sabotage critical infrastructure, particularly in central Uganda.
“Some of these suspects posed as political activists, mainly from the National Unity Platform (NUP), but investigations confirm they were part of a wider rebel network,” Col Magezi explained.
He added that many of the suspects have already been arraigned in court and are awaiting trial.
According to the UPDF, rebel groups are actively recruiting vulnerable youths from Kampala’s slums (ghettos) to instigate chaos ahead of the 2026 general elections. The military alleges that these groups are being manipulated by external forces seeking to destabilize Uganda.
“The Inter-Agency Security Committee has resolved to take decisive action against the leaders, organizers, and financiers of these subversive activities,” Col Magezi declared.
The UPDF’s accusations come amid heightened political tensions in Uganda, with opposition groups frequently accusing the government of repression. The military’s statement suggests a hardening stance against perceived foreign-backed dissent.
Col Magezi urged Ugandan youth to resist being exploited by political actors with ulterior motives. “We advise the youth to stay away from such dangerous groups and instead engage in government programs designed to secure their future,” he said.
As of press time, the German Embassy in Kampala had not issued an official response to the allegations. Diplomatic sources indicate that the matter may escalate if not resolved through back-channel negotiations.
The UPDF warned that any individuals local or foreign found supporting rebel activities will be identified and dealt with in accordance with Ugandan law.
This development marks a significant escalation in Uganda’s relations with Western diplomats, particularly Germany, which has previously raised concerns about human rights and governance in the country.
