REVEALED: How NUP Pressured Canadian Government to Act Against Ambassador Joy Ruth Aceng

 

KAMPALA, UGANDA: The recent recall of Ambassador Joy Ruth Aceng from her post in Canada has sparked widespread debate on social media, shedding light on the intense political maneuvering that led to the decision. Ambassador Aceng, who had served in Ottawa since 2016, became embroiled in controversy following Uganda’s enactment of the Anti-Homosexuality Act in 2023.

The Canadian government, reacting strongly to the new law, summoned Ambassador Aceng shortly after its enactment. Despite facing pressure to temper her stance, she maintained firm support for Uganda’s position, a move backed by Kampala. Ambassador Aceng’s troubles escalated when she informed Canadian authorities about alleged instances of National Unity Platform (NUP) supporters falsely claiming to be homosexuals to secure visas. This accusation enraged NUP supporters, leading to a series of confrontations aimed at discrediting her.

One of the first publicized incidents occurred a few months ago during a diaspora event in Ottawa organized by Ambassador Aceng to promote trade and investment. NUP supporters disrupted the event, creating chaos and attempting to provoke her into an international incident. However, Canadian security officials present at the event managed to contain the situation, allowing Ambassador Aceng to continue her duties without further incident.

Despite successfully thwarting these provocations, the tensions between Ambassador Aceng and NUP supporters did not subside. According to sources within the Ugandan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni was aware of these ongoing challenges and at one point authorized Ambassador Aceng’s transfer to another first-world country. However, the transfer was delayed under unclear circumstances, leading to further deterioration in the diplomatic relationship between Uganda and Canada.

President Museveni reportedly commended Ambassador Aceng after she successfully blocked NUP supporters from disrupting a pro-Museveni event in Ottawa. Following this, he summoned her to discuss strategies to counter the influence of radical opposition groups abroad. Despite her strong performance in promoting Uganda’s interests, the Canadian government ultimately requested her recall, citing her involvement in clashes with NUP supporters and her outspoken support for Uganda’s ruling party.

Ambassador Aceng’s tenure in Canada was marked by significant achievements, particularly in advancing trade and investment ties and mobilizing the Ugandan diaspora to contribute to national development. A few months before her recall, President Museveni entrusted her with additional responsibilities as head of Uganda’s mission in the Bahamas, a testament to her distinguished service. However, her vocal opposition to what she perceived as manipulation by NUP supporters and her steadfast defense of Uganda’s policies ultimately led to the diplomatic fallout that culminated in her recall.

As the story continues to unfold, questions remain about the underlying factors that delayed her transfer and the broader implications for Uganda-Canada relations. Meanwhile, Ambassador Aceng’s legacy as a staunch advocate for Uganda’s interests on the international stage remains intact, even as she prepares for the next chapter in her diplomatic career.