Muhoozi vs US: Sanctions Threat Sparks Diplomatic Clash as Uganda’s Army Chief Vows Retaliation

A new diplomatic clash is unfolding between Uganda and the United States. US lawmakers have called for sanctions against Uganda’s army chief, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba. The move follows concerns over the January general election. In response, Muhoozi issued a strong warning. He said any action by Washington would be met with retaliation. This has raised fears of worsening ties between the two countries.

The tension grew after senior US officials criticised the election. They said it was flawed. They also said it lacked transparency. Senator Jim Risch, chair of the US Senate Foreign Relations Committee, urged the Donald Trump administration to impose sanctions on Muhoozi. He accused Ugandan authorities of allowing political violence. He also blamed them for silencing opposition voices.

Moreover, US lawmakers said democratic standards were weakened. They pointed to voter intimidation. They mentioned arrests of activists. They also cited heavy security presence at opposition events. As a result, Washington signalled it may take tougher diplomatic steps.

However, Muhoozi responded quickly. He took to X to dismiss the threats. He accused “spoilers in the USA” of interfering in Uganda’s affairs. He said Uganda would not accept pressure from foreign powers. He added that the country would defend its sovereignty.

More importantly, Muhoozi warned of retaliation. He said sanctions would not go unanswered. “If some people in the USA sanction me or Uganda, we shall respond by sanctioning them too,” he said. His message was clear. Uganda is ready to push back.

Meanwhile, the sanctions debate is linked to human rights claims. Opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, known as Bobi Wine, accused security forces of targeting his supporters. He said soldiers raided his home. He also said his family members were assaulted.

In addition, civil society groups reported abductions. They reported unlawful arrests. They also reported harassment of activists. They criticised the government for shutting down the internet on election day. This limited access to social media. It also blocked the flow of information.

This is not the first clash. Uganda has faced US sanctions before. Several officials were targeted over corruption and rights abuses. The Speaker of Parliament was also sanctioned after the Anti-Homosexuality Act.

Now, tensions are rising again. Both sides are standing firm. Analysts warn the standoff could deepen. The dispute may reshape relations. Uganda could face more global pressure in the months ahead.