The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has issued a stark warning to the US Ambassador to Uganda, William Popp, accusing him of disrespecting President Yoweri Museveni and undermining the nation’s sovereignty.
In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Muhoozi expressed frustration over what he perceives as foreign interference in Uganda's affairs, hinting at a possible diplomatic standoff.
“Fellow Ugandans, it is my solemn duty to announce that we, as a nation, are about to have a serious confrontation with the current US Ambassador to our country. For disrespecting our beloved and celebrated President and undermining the constitution of Uganda,” Muhoozi stated.
The First Son emphasized that his grievance is not a personal vendetta but a national concern, accusing the ambassador of overstepping diplomatic boundaries. "This is a national issue, and you will see that no foreign nation will ever dominate Uganda again!" he asserted, indicating a brewing tension between Uganda and the US Embassy.
Muhoozi's comments come against the backdrop of ongoing US sanctions targeting Ugandan officials for alleged human rights abuses. Recently, the US Department of State sanctioned four senior police officers, including Bob Kagarura and Elly Womanya, for their involvement in torture and other human rights violations.
These sanctions, which have been welcomed by opposition figures like National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, have further strained relations between Uganda and the United States. Kyagulanyi praised the sanctions, calling them a significant step towards justice for victims of abuse in Uganda. “We are delighted to receive news of fresh sanctions imposed by the United States of America on four senior police officers involved in acts of torture, cruel, degrading, and inhuman treatment,” he stated.
The sanctions come after a wave of similar actions taken against high-profile Ugandan officials, including Speaker Anita Among and former Ministers of Karamoja Affairs, Mary Goretti Kitutu and Agnes Nandutu.
A Call for Apology or Expulsion
In a more direct post, Muhoozi issued an ultimatum to Ambassador Popp, demanding an apology to President Museveni by Monday morning or face expulsion from the country. “If this current US Ambassador does not apologize to Mzee personally by Monday morning (9.00 am) for his undiplomatic behavior, we will demand he leaves Uganda," Muhoozi warned, stressing that Uganda’s dissatisfaction is not with the US as a nation but with Popp's conduct.
Though he expressed admiration for the United States, Muhoozi shared his belief that external forces have been working against Uganda's ruling party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM). He went as far as invoking historical references, claiming, "The manifest destiny of the entire world is black. In 300 years the only human beings in the universe will be black and beautiful!"
Uncertainty Over Uganda-US Relations
As tensions continue to simmer, the future of Uganda's relationship with the US remains unclear. While Muhoozi's remarks have ignited strong reactions, especially among opposition supporters who favor US pressure on Uganda's government, the threat of expelling an ambassador is an unprecedented move that could have far-reaching diplomatic consequences.
Ambassador Popp, who assumed office in September last year, has yet to respond publicly to Muhoozi’s allegations or ultimatum. However, with the deadline for an apology fast approaching, all eyes are on how this diplomatic drama will unfold.
