UPDF Suspends Defence Cooperation with Germany Over Alleged Subversive Activities by Ambassador

Kampala, Uganda – May 25, 2025

In a significant diplomatic move, the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) announced the immediate suspension of all defence and military cooperation with the Federal Republic of Germany. The decision was formally communicated on Sunday, citing the conduct of the German Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Mathias Schauer, as the central issue.

According to a statement released by Colonel Chris Magezi, Acting Director of Defence Public Information, the suspension stems from "credible intelligence reports" indicating that Ambassador Schauer is actively involved in subversive activities within Uganda. These alleged activities reportedly include engagement with "hostile pseudo political-military forces" opposed to the Ugandan government.

“The UPDF has with immediate effect suspended all ongoing defence and military cooperation activities with the Federal Republic of Germany,” the statement reads. “The suspension will remain in force until the full resolution of the matter of the Ambassador’s involvement.”

The nature of the alleged subversive activities has not been disclosed in detail, but the language of the statement suggests serious concerns regarding national security and foreign interference. The UPDF’s decision marks a rare and notable step in Uganda’s international military relations and signals heightened sensitivity around foreign diplomatic conduct.

Uganda and Germany have shared a long-standing partnership in various sectors, including defence training, security cooperation, and development assistance. The suspension, therefore, could have wider implications for bilateral relations between the two nations.

As of now, the German Embassy in Kampala has not issued a public response. Diplomatic observers expect that the development will prompt formal discussions between the two governments, potentially involving the recall or replacement of the ambassador, or further escalation depending on subsequent investigations and diplomatic engagement.

The UPDF has assured that it remains committed to defending Uganda’s sovereignty and maintaining stability within its borders. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is expected to issue further communication in the coming days regarding the diplomatic implications and next steps.

This developing situation adds a new dimension to Uganda’s foreign relations and underscores the growing vigilance of the country’s security establishment against perceived external threats.