Uganda’s security forces have raised alarms over alleged clandestine activities by the German Ambassador to Uganda, Mathias Schauer, accusing him of supporting subversive groups linked to organized armed rebellion and economic sabotage.
The accusations come amid a broader crackdown on emerging rebel groups, with several suspects arrested for plotting to bomb public places and vandalize electricity infrastructure across central Uganda, particularly in districts such as Wakiso, Mukono, Kayunga, Luweero, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Nakasongola, Mityana, Mubende, Mpigi, and the greater Masaka region.
According to Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, intelligence services have uncovered “strong evidence” linking funding and mobilization for these groups to certain accredited European diplomatic missions in Kampala, with Schauer singled out for engaging in activities deemed “clearly undiplomatic” and in violation of the 1961 Vienna Diplomatic Conventions.
The Ugandan government is addressing the issue through diplomatic channels with the German mission.
The Inter-Agency Security Committee, chaired by the UPDF Chief of Defence Forces and including the Uganda Police Force, Prisons Services, and intelligence agencies, has intensified efforts to infiltrate and dismantle terrorist and subversive cells.
These groups are reportedly luring youths from Kampala’s metropolitan ghetto communities into rebel activities, with some suspects posing as activists of the National Unity Platform (NUP). Many have been charged and remanded in custody pending court hearings.
The committee has vowed to take firm action against the ringleaders, organizers, and funders of these activities, which are partly aimed at disrupting the general elections scheduled for early next year.
Colonel Magezi condemned foreign interference in Uganda’s internal affairs, warning that security forces will decisively confront those seeking to destabilize the country.
He urged Ugandan youths to resist manipulation by “enemy political actors” and embrace government wealth creation and youth development programs.
“The local treacherous lot and agents of foreign manipulation will continue to be identified, isolated, and dealt with firmly in accordance with the laws of the land,” Magezi stated.
The accusations against Ambassador Schauer have heightened tensions, raising questions about the role of foreign missions in Uganda’s political and security landscape as the country prepares for its upcoming elections.