Gen. Muhoozi Accuses US Ambassador of Disrespecting President Museveni, Warns of Looming Confrontation

Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has accused US Ambassador William Popp of showing blatant disrespect toward President Yoweri Museveni and Uganda, warning of an impending confrontation. In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), Muhoozi expressed his growing frustration with the ambassador, alleging a disregard for both the President and Uganda’s constitution.

“Fellow Ugandans, it is my solemn duty to announce to you all 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 for undermining the constitution of Uganda,” Muhoozi said.

While clarifying that his grievances are not personal, Muhoozi insisted that his concerns are rooted in the broader issue of foreign interference in Uganda’s internal affairs. “This is a national issue, and you will see that no foreign nation will ever dominate Uganda again!” he added.

Muhoozi’s remarks come against the backdrop of ongoing US sanctions targeting Ugandan officials over alleged human rights violations. Recently, the US Department of State sanctioned four members of the Uganda Police Force for their involvement in severe abuses, including torture, further straining diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Sanctioned officials include former Wamala Regional Police Commander Bob Kagarura, ex-District Police Commander Alex Mwine, and former Senior Commissioner Elly Womanya, among others. Ambassador Popp, who assumed office last year, has overseen a period of heightened tensions, with several high-ranking Ugandan officials, including Speaker Anita Among and FUFA President Magogo, also facing sanctions.

While the Ugandan government sees these actions as foreign interference, opposition figures such as Robert Kyagulanyi of the National Unity Platform (NUP) have welcomed the sanctions as a step toward justice for victims of abuse in Uganda. Kyagulanyi praised the U.S. for imposing sanctions on those responsible for “cruel, degrading, and inhuman treatment.”

With diplomatic tensions simmering, Muhoozi’s warnings suggest the potential for escalating confrontation in Uganda’s relations with the United States.