Kampala, Uganda — Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, has triggered widespread diplomatic concern following a series of controversial statements directed at Turkey, including a demand for $1 billion and an unusual personal request tied to marriage.
In posts published on the social media platform X, Gen. Kainerugaba — who is also the son of President Yoweri Museveni — claimed that Uganda’s long-standing military role in regional security, particularly in Somalia, has not been adequately recognised or compensated.
Uganda has been a key troop contributor to African Union-led peacekeeping operations in Somalia for nearly two decades, playing a central role in efforts to combat the Islamist militant group Al-Shabaab.
Kainerugaba argued that while Turkey has benefited economically from infrastructure and business ventures in Somalia — including developments in Mogadishu — Uganda has borne a disproportionate share of the security burden. He described the requested $1 billion as a “security dividend.”
“For Turkey, it’s a really simple deal… Either they pay us, or I close their embassy here,” Kainerugaba wrote, adding that Uganda would be prepared to sever diplomatic ties within 30 days if the demand is not met.
In a separate and widely criticized remark, the army chief also called on Turkey to provide what he described as “the most beautiful woman in the country” for him to marry — a statement that has drawn backlash online and raised concerns about diplomatic decorum.
He further warned Ugandan citizens against travelling to Turkey, citing unspecified safety concerns, and suggested that bilateral relations were on the brink of collapse.
The remarks have sparked debate among analysts, with many questioning whether the statements reflect official government policy or personal views. The Ugandan government has not yet issued a formal clarification.
Kainerugaba also used the same platform to express support for Israel, stating he would be willing to deploy up to 100,000 Ugandan troops to protect the country, describing it as “the Holy Land.”
This is not the first time the Ugandan military chief has drawn attention for provocative comments. In 2022, he made headlines after offering 100 Ankole cows in exchange for marrying Giorgia Meloni, a statement widely viewed as unconventional and diplomatically sensitive.
As tensions rise, observers warn that such rhetoric — if left unaddressed — could strain Uganda’s diplomatic relations not only with Turkey but also with broader international partners.
It remains unclear whether Kampala will take formal steps to de-escalate the situation or clarify the official stance regarding the statements made by its top military official.
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