CMP Report, Kampala – October 7, 2024
Uganda
On October 4, 2024, Muhoozi issued a public ultimatum via X (formerly Twitter), demanding that Ambassador Popp issue a formal apology to the president by Monday, October 7, or face expulsion from Uganda. The general warned of a “serious confrontation” if the ambassador did not comply
In response to Muhoozi’s ultimatum, US Senator Jim Risch, a senior member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, emphasized that any further actions against Ambassador Popp would provoke a strong response from the US government. Risch highlighted the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations but stressed that disrespect towards US envoys would not be tolerated
As the deadline approached on October 7, tensions ran high, but by the end of the day, there were no immediate reports from Ambassador Popp being expelled. Both sides remained firm in their positions, with Uganda refraining from formal diplomatic action and the US Embassy continuing its work in Uganda as usual
Voice of America
However, this confrontation is set against a backdrop of increasing diplomatic strain, driven by the US imposing sanctions on Ugandan officials for human rights violations. The sanctions, targeting four high-ranking police officers for acts of torture and other abuses, have added to the tension bet
The situation highlights the fragile nature of US-Uganda relations as Uganda heads into a pivotal election period in 2026. General Muhoozi, widely viewed as a potential successor to his father, has been vocal about Uganda’s sovereignty and foreign interference, making future diplomatic
Observers expect further dialogue behind the scenes, but the incident underscores the rising tensions surrounding Uganda’s internal politics and its relations with the West