Berlin Slams Uganda’s Claims Against Envoy as ‘Absurd’ Amid Defence Row

Germany has dismissed as “absurd” allegations by the Ugandan military that its ambassador in Kampala, Matthias Schauer, was involved in subversive activities, deepening a diplomatic rift that has put a longstanding defence partnership on ice.

“We reject these allegations in the strongest terms. They are unfounded and do not reflect the conduct or mission of Ambassador Schauer,” said Kathrin Deschauer, a spokesperson for the German Foreign Ministry, during a press briefing in Berlin.

She insisted that the envoy was simply performing his diplomatic duties in accordance with international protocols and Germany’s bilateral commitments.

The German government expressed concern that the accusations could jeopardise years of cooperation between the two countries, especially in sectors such as defence, refugee support, and development assistance.

Berlin emphasised that Schauer has consistently acted within the scope of his role and that any suggestions to the contrary are “completely baseless.”

The sharp rebuttal from Berlin followed Uganda’s announcement at the weekend that it had suspended all military collaboration with Germany.

The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) said it had taken the decision based on “credible intelligence” alleging that Ambassador Schauer had been interacting with “pseudo political-military organisations” accused of plotting against the Ugandan state.

According to the UPDF, military-to-military engagements would remain frozen until the matter is resolved.

The statement, however, did not name the groups allegedly involved, nor did it provide evidence to support the claims.

The fallout has cast a shadow over what had been a productive relationship. Germany has long supported Uganda through bilateral and multilateral initiatives, with substantial contributions in areas such as peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, renewable energy, and regional security.

Before the suspension, Germany and Uganda had engaged in joint training exercises, peace support operations, and military exchanges focused on disaster response and crisis management.

German defence officials have also worked with the UPDF on improving civil-military relations and Uganda’s contributions to regional missions, including the former African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM).

As of Monday evening, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not issued an official comment on Germany’s response. No move has been made to expel Ambassador Schauer, who remains in Kampala.