Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, on Wednesday issued a public apology to the United States over a series of controversial social media posts, even as tensions linger following his earlier announcement suspending military cooperation with the U.S. Embassy in Kampala.
“I want to apologise to our great friends, the United States, for my earlier tweets that I have now deleted,” Gen Muhoozi wrote on X, striking a noticeably conciliatory tone after days of sharp rhetoric that accused the U.S. mission of colluding with Uganda’s political opposition.
The apology comes hours after the outspoken army chief had declared that the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) would halt all cooperation with the U.S. Embassy, a statement that immediately sparked diplomatic concern given the long-standing security partnership between Kampala and Washington. The United States has supported Uganda in counterterrorism efforts, military training, and regional stability operations for decades.
Gen Muhoozi’s initial remarks were widely interpreted as a response to growing Western criticism of Uganda’s political environment, particularly as the country navigates an increasingly tense general election period. U.S. officials have repeatedly raised concerns over human rights, political freedoms, and the conduct of security agencies—issues the Ugandan government often describes as external interference.
The apparent reversal, or softening, of tone has fueled speculation about whether Gen Muhoozi’s earlier declaration reflected official government policy or a personal position expressed through his social media platforms, where he is known for provocative and unscripted commentary.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Uganda’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs had not issued a formal clarification on the status of military cooperation with the United States. The U.S. Embassy in Kampala has also remained silent on both the suspension claim and the subsequent apology.
Political analysts say the episode underscores the fragile state of Uganda–U.S. relations at a time when diplomatic engagement is especially sensitive. With elections underway and international scrutiny intensifying, even symbolic gestures and online statements are carrying significant political weight.
Whether the apology signals de-escalation or merely damage control remains to be seen, but it has added yet another twist to an already volatile political moment.
BY Newshub