By Ritah Atukwatse,
KAMPALA
The Alliance for National Transformation (ANT) has released a statement addressing the current diplomatic challenges between Uganda and European Union diplomats, especially the German Ambassador.
It should be recalled that the Chief of Defense Forces for Uganda, CDF Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba recently threatened to deport Germany envoy, Mathias Schauer over alleged subversive activities. Days later, the national army announced the suspension of all military cooperations with Germany after accusing its ambassador, stating that he is “wholly unqualified” to be in Uganda.
“The suspension will remain in force until the full resolution of the matter of the Ambassador’s involvement with pseudo political-military forces operating in the country against the Ugandan government,” Ugandan army spokesperson Col. Chris Magezi said, without giving evidence to substantiate its claims.
The accusations followed a meeting with President Museveni’s brother Gen. Caleb Akandwanaho alias Gen. Salim Saleh in which Schauer questioned the conduct of the CDF and First Son Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, particularly on X.
Germany foreign affairs ministry has since dismissed the accusations and called them, “absurd and without any merit.”
Uganda’s opposition political party, ANT argued that diplomatic relations are significant for maintaining the country’s peace, promoting trade, and fostering international cooperation.
In a statement signed by Alaso Alice Asianut, the party’s Acting National Coordinator, the party raised concerns over recent friction between the CDF and European Union diplomats.
“Lately, we have witnessed a rather unhealthy development involving mainly the CDF and diplomats from the European Union, in particular the German Ambassador,” ANT warned.
While acknowledging that disagreements can arise in diplomatic engagements, ANT stressed the need to adhere to international protocols, including the Vienna and Geneva Conventions, which Uganda is a signatory to.
Alaso challenged President Museveni to use his powers as the Commander in Chief of Ugandan army to intervene and resolve this matter, warning that cutting off diplomatic ties could damage Uganda’s image and global standing.
“At the national level, the diplomatic mandate of the ministry of foreign affairs should be activated to whatever issue if any, in a professional and dignified way,” ANT urged.
ANT is optimistic that peaceful and respectful resolution of diplomatic disputes would continue to build Uganda’s relations with the Europe, particularly the German Government.
