In posts on X (formerly known as Twitter) on Friday, Muhoozi gave Ambassador Popp an ultimatum to issue a personal apology to his father by Monday at 9 am.
The United States has issued a stern warning to Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, following a series of social media posts targeting US Ambassador William Popp. Muhoozi was cautioned by the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee that any further provocation would be "very problematic" and met with "a serious response."
The Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, commissioned an administration block at Ruhengyere Barracks, also known as Camp Rufu, in western Uganda.
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Muhoozi claimed that the ambassador had exhibited undiplomatic behaviour, accused him of disrespecting President Museveni, and warned of a "serious confrontation."
The tweets have since been deleted.
The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee responded directly to the deleted posts, emphasising that any further escalation could lead to significant consequences.
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“Any further confrontation will be very problematic & met with a serious response," the committee stated, clarifying that the US Ambassador and the US mission in Uganda engage with the Ugandan government on a non-partisan basis to foster stronger ties between the American and Ugandan people.
Genesis
The root cause of Muhoozi’s online tirade remains unclear. However, speculation suggests it may have been triggered by an alleged letter from Ambassador Popp, reportedly advising President Museveni against seeking re-election in 2026 due to concerns about Uganda’s stability and the broader region. Meanwhile, the US government also imposed sanctions this week on four Ugandan police officers over human rights violations.
President Museveni, once considered a vital ally to the West for regional security, has indicated his interest in extending his presidency beyond its current 40-year span. Muhoozi had previously signaled a desire to succeed his father but has recently called on his supporters to back Museveni’s continued rule.
In response to the escalating situation, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller addressed the sanctions imposed on four Ugandan police officers for "gross violations of human rights," including torture and inhumane treatment. The officers named were Bob Kagarura, Alex Mwine, Elly Womanya, and Hamdani Twesigye. Miller reaffirmed that the United States remains dedicated to working with the Ugandan authorities on a broad array of issues and remains committed to upholding justice and accountability for human rights violations worldwide. This includes denying travel visas to individuals with a record of abuse.
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The US Embassy in Uganda reiterated Miller's remarks, stating that the embassy, Ambassador Popp, and the US government continue their usual operations and collaborations with Ugandan officials.
