By Our Reporter
The German government has categorically dismissed allegations by Uganda’s military accusing its ambassador in Kampala, Matthias Schauer, of subversive activities, calling the claims “absurd” and “completely unfounded.” The strong rebuttal marks a sharp escalation in a diplomatic dispute that threatens to unravel years of bilateral cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the defence sector.
Speaking at a press briefing in Berlin, German Foreign Ministry spokesperson Kathrin Deschauer firmly rejected the accusations, which Uganda’s Ministry of Defence cited over the weekend as the basis for suspending all military collaboration with Germany.
“We reject these allegations in the strongest terms. They are unfounded and do not reflect the conduct or mission of Ambassador Schauer,” Deschauer stated. “He has always acted within the framework of international diplomatic norms and Germany’s bilateral obligations.”
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) claimed that the suspension of military cooperation was prompted by “credible intelligence” alleging Ambassador Schauer’s involvement with unnamed “pseudo political-military organisations” accused of plotting against the Ugandan government. However, no evidence or specific groups were identified in the UPDF’s statement.
Germany expressed concern that the allegations could damage longstanding ties, particularly in key sectors such as defence, humanitarian assistance, refugee support, and development cooperation. The German Foreign Ministry warned that the suspension of defence collaboration could jeopardize shared security interests and years of progress.
Prior to the fallout, Germany and Uganda had maintained a robust defence partnership, including joint military training, disaster response planning, peace support operations, and advisory efforts aimed at strengthening Uganda’s contributions to regional security missions such as the now-concluded African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).
German military advisers have also been involved in enhancing civil-military relations and providing technical assistance in crisis management.
“Ambassador Schauer remains in Kampala and continues to represent Germany’s commitment to peace, development, and regional stability,” Deschauer said, adding that any erosion of mutual trust would be a significant loss not only for the two nations but also for broader East African regional interests.
As of Tuesday evening, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not issued an official response to Germany’s statement. There has also been no indication that Ambassador Schauer will be expelled or recalled.
Political analysts suggest the dispute reflects broader concerns about rising sensitivities within Uganda regarding foreign diplomatic activity and internal political dynamics. The suspension of military ties, they note, could be a sign of deepening mistrust between Uganda and some of its international partners.
With the situation still unfolding, diplomatic observers are closely monitoring whether efforts at dialogue will restore cooperation or whether the standoff will further strain the historically cordial relationship between Berlin and Kampala.