NUP Force Uganda’s Ambassador to Canada Joy Ruth Acheng to Resign.

Diplomats are responsible for representing their countries abroad, forging international relationships, and advancing national interests. Central to diplomacy is the principle of impartiality; diplomats must navigate complex international situations without being drawn into domestic political conflicts. This neutrality is crucial for maintaining trust and credibility in their diplomatic engagements. Joy Ruth Acheng’s involvement in partisan politics while serving as Uganda’s High Commissioner to Canada is a breach of these principles and could lead to her being declared persona non grata by the host country. Such actions risk damaging Uganda’s relationship with Canada and undermining the credibility of Uganda’s entire diplomatic corps, with repercussions that could extend beyond Canada and affect Uganda’s global standing.

Historical examples illustrate the consequences of diplomats engaging in partisan politics or being appointed based on political connections. In the early 2000s, U.S. Ambassador Charles “Chuck” C. Johnson faced tensions with his host country due to his political affiliations, which strained diplomatic relations and led to his reassignment. Similarly, Brazil’s 2015 appointment of Sérgio Amaral as ambassador to the UK, criticized for its political motivations, impacted diplomatic relations and sparked debates about transparency in appointments. Russia’s involvement in domestic politics and election interference in EU countries has led to expulsions and sanctions, emphasizing the severe consequences of breaching diplomatic norms. These global cases highlight the importance of adhering to diplomatic standards and maintaining impartiality to avoid strained relations and other negative outcomes.

For Uganda, restoring diplomatic integrity through merit-based appointments is essential. Diplomatic roles should be filled based on qualifications and experience rather than political favoritism. A commitment to neutrality is vital, as diplomats must focus on fostering positive international relations without engaging in domestic political issues. Reforming appointment practices and upholding diplomatic standards will help Uganda avoid the pitfalls experienced by other countries and enhance its diplomatic effectiveness. By learning from these global precedents, Uganda can improve its international reputation and ensure that its diplomatic efforts are conducted with the highest standards of professionalism and impartiality.

Uganda’s appointment practices have long been criticized for prioritizing political connections over merit, often resulting in a mismatch between the skills required and those possessed by appointees, which compromises the effectiveness of diplomatic missions. For instance, the appointment of a former Ugandan Ambassador to South Sudan, who lacked the necessary diplomatic skills, highlights the negative impact of non-merit-based appointments. This misalignment can severely affect Uganda’s diplomatic effectiveness. The lack of competent diplomatic representation in neighboring countries like Kenya further exacerbates these challenges. Given Kenya’s strategic importance in regional stability and bilateral relations with Uganda, skilled diplomats are essential for managing these interactions effectively. Without effective representation, Uganda risks missing out on crucial diplomatic and economic opportunities.

To address these challenges, the Ugandan government must reform its approach to diplomatic appointments. Selecting diplomats based on their qualifications, experience, and diplomatic skills, rather than political loyalty, will enhance the effectiveness of Uganda’s diplomatic missions and ensure that its international interests are well-represented. Merit-based appointments are fundamental to maintaining the credibility and integrity of Uganda’s Foreign Service and achieving more effective international engagement. By ensuring that appointments are based on merit, Uganda can improve its diplomatic outcomes and strengthen its global position.

However, reforming appointment practices is only part of the solution. Uganda must also reaffirm its commitment to diplomatic norms and ethical standards. Diplomats should exemplify professionalism and adhere to principles that reflect the values and interests of their nation. For example, Uganda’s previous success in securing environmental agreements demonstrates the positive impact of high ethical standards in diplomacy. Ensuring that all diplomats adhere to these principles will enhance Uganda’s international reputation and build stronger, more productive relationships with other nations.

The issues facing Uganda’s diplomatic service, as highlighted by Joy Ruth Acheng’s case, underscore the urgent need for reform and adherence to diplomatic standards. The Ugandan government must prioritize merit-based appointments to ensure that its diplomatic missions are led by competent professionals. Additionally, a renewed commitment to diplomatic norms and ethical standards is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of Uganda’s Foreign Service. Addressing these issues will not only improve Uganda’s diplomatic effectiveness but also restore trust and respect in its international relations.