The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) has accused German Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Mathias Schauer, of engaging in “illegal and clandestine” activities that allegedly support rebel groups plotting to destabilize the country ahead of the 2026 general elections.
The explosive allegations were made public in a press release issued by Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information. According to the statement, security and intelligence agencies have over recent months arrested multiple individuals linked to organized armed rebellion, bomb plots targeting public spaces, and sabotage of power infrastructure across central Uganda.
The statement noted that some of the arrested individuals had previously posed as opposition political activists, particularly from the National Unity Platform (NUP). Affected districts include Wakiso, Mukono, Kayunga, Luweero, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Nakasongola, Mityana, Mubende, Mpigi, and the greater Masaka region.
Magezi disclosed that Uganda’s Inter-Agency Security Committee, chaired by the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces, is coordinating efforts with police, prisons, and intelligence bodies to crack down on subversive cells particularly those allegedly operating within urban ghettos in the Kampala metropolitan area.
In a sharp diplomatic twist, the UPDF named Ambassador Schauer as a person of interest in what it called “undiplomatic practices” that violate the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The military accuses him of being part of a wider network of foreign influence funnelling support to “negative and traitorous groups” opposed to the NRM government.
“The Government of Uganda is following up the matter with the concerned foreign mission through the relevant diplomatic channels to address the disturbing development,” the statement reads.
While no specific evidence was publicly provided, the UPDF insists that the allegations are backed by “strong intelligence” and warned of decisive action against both local and foreign actors involved.
The press release also appealed to Uganda’s youth to reject manipulation by “enemy political actors” and instead take advantage of government-run development and wealth-creation programs.
As of now, neither the German Embassy nor Ambassador Schauer has issued a public response.