KAMPALA – General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, has issued a stark ultimatum to Türkiye, threatening to terminate diplomatic relations within 30 days unless unspecified concerns are addressed.
In a series of statements posted on social media, the General criticized Ankara’s growing influence in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Somalia. He highlighted that Western nations were the primary supporters of Uganda’s early military interventions in Somalia, noting that Türkiye was not involved during that critical period.
The General’s remarks point to a deepening rift between Kampala and Ankara, with friction likely stemming from regional competition over security influence in Mogadishu. Uganda, as a major troop contributor to Somalia, appears increasingly wary of Türkiye’s expanding military and economic footprint in the country.
The 30-day ultimatum places significant pressure on diplomatic channels between the two nations. While Turkish firms remain active in Uganda, the rhetoric marks a sharp cooling of relations, with General Muhoozi warning that the potential fallout could include the suspension of air links.
Neither the Turkish Foreign Ministry nor the Ugandan government has issued a formal response to the social media statements.
