Uganda accuses German envoy as rebel threats rise

Uganda’s security forces have sounded a stark warning over what they describe as “emerging rebel activities” and foreign interference, placing the German Ambassador, H.E. Mathias Schauer, at the heart of a brewing diplomatic storm.

In a strongly worded statement released Friday, Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, revealed that several individuals with alleged links to armed rebellion and acts of economic sabotage particularly the vandalism of power lines have been arrested and charged in courts of law. The epicenter of this sabotage reportedly spans across several central districts including Wakiso, Mukono, Kayunga, Luweero, and Masaka.

What has shocked political observers and foreign missions alike, however, is the direct accusation against Ambassador Schauer. Magezi stated that intelligence services have unearthed what they term “clearly undiplomatic practices” by the German envoy, alleging his involvement in clandestine activities that contravene the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.

“We are particularly concerned about the illegal and clandestine activities of the German Ambassador in Uganda… which go against the spirit of cordial relations between states,” Col. Magezi noted.

While specific actions or evidence were not publicly disclosed, Magezi asserted that the matter is now being handled through diplomatic channels.

The revelation comes barely days after German Ambassador Schauer was among European diplomats who met General Salim Saleh, Chief Coordinator of Operation Wealth Creation, at his residence in Gulu. During the meeting the EU delegation raised complaints that the CDF’s social media threats are eroding Uganda’s international standing and bilateral relations.

In a subtle yet significant response during the meeting, Gen Saleh assured the diplomats: “We shall manage that one for you. We shall get him on board and sort it out if he has offended you.”

The meeting, previously thought to be a routine diplomatic engagement, now appears to carry deeper undercurrents signaling a tense but carefully managed effort to calm potential diplomatic fallout.

Ugandan security agencies say the new wave of threats is being orchestrated through subversive cells targeting ghetto communities in and around Kampala, with the alleged goal of disrupting next year’s general elections. Many of the arrested suspects are said to have posed as activists from opposition parties, notably the National Unity Platform (NUP).

“The Inter-Agency Security Committee has resolved to take firm action against ringleaders and funders of these rebel activities,” Magezi warned.

While the statement is a clear message to foreign and domestic actors alike, it has also sparked concerns over growing tensions between Uganda and some European diplomatic missions, with Germany now at the center of the storm.

As the 2026 elections draw nearer, observers say Uganda’s political and security landscape is likely to witness more dramatic turns and that diplomacy may be the next battlefield.