Kampala, Friday May 23, 2005
The German Ambassador to Uganda, His Excellency Mathias Schauer, is currently under close surveillance by Uganda’s military intelligence over alleged involvement in activities linked to emerging rebel groups operating in the country.
The Inter-Agency Security Committee has cited activities by Ambassador Schauer as particularly concerning, noting that his conduct contravenes provisions of the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, which governs the standards of diplomatic conduct and non-interference in host nations’ internal affairs.
Acting Director Defense Public Information officer Col Chris Magezi says In recent months, the government has intensified its operations against organised armed rebellion and acts of economic sabotage, including the widespread vandalism of electricity infrastructure in central Uganda.
Districts such as Wakiso, Mukono, Kayunga, Luweero, Nakaseke, Kiboga, Nakasongola, Mityana, Mubende, Mpigi, and the greater Masaka region have reported severe disruptions, believed to be coordinated by rebel-linked cells.
Magezi also says a significant number of individuals arrested in connection with these crimes have been found to be linked to opposition political structures, particularly the National Unity Platform (NUP). They now face charges before the courts and remain in custody pending trial.
The defense mouthpiece notes that Inter-Agency Security Committee, chaired by the Chief of Defence Forces and comprised of representatives from the Uganda Police Force, Prisons Service, and intelligence entities, is actively pursuing these threats.
Their current priority is to dismantle terror cells recruiting vulnerable youths from urban slums in and around the greater Kampala area.
In its latest session, the Committee resolved to take uncompromising action against the architects and financiers of rebel operations, which are suspected to be aimed at disrupting the upcoming general elections slated for early next year.
The Ugandan government reaffirms its commitment to defending national sovereignty and stability against both internal saboteurs and foreign agents. Diplomatic efforts are underway to formally address the troubling conduct of foreign missions, particularly the German Embassy, through appropriate channels.
The Uganda People’s Defence Forces and its security partners has strongly cautioned the youth against being drawn into illegal activities under the guise of political mobilisation. The public is encouraged to instead engage in state-sponsored development and wealth creation programs for sustainable progress.
