Namibia has decided to put its foot down and deny a visa extension to the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II. The monarch, who has been enjoying the scenic views of Okunguari, Kunene Province, will have to cut his stay short, thanks to the Namibian government’s firm stance on immigration laws.
The Kabaka, who has been in Namibia since May, is reportedly recuperating at a health facility in Okunguari, about 700 kilometers from Windhoek. But despite the efforts of the facility’s director, Dr. Daleen de Lange, to secure an extension, Namibia’s Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation has firmly said, “No more days for you!”
Penda Naanda, the Executive Director of the Ministry, made it clear: “Our law allows non-Namibians to stay for a maximum of 90 days. We’ve checked the records, and we must decline the extension for Kabaka Mutebi II.” This diplomatic yet stern rejection came as a shock to many, especially those who thought a royal title might sway the rules.
Uganda’s envoy to Pretoria, Paul Amoru, has been navigating these diplomatic waters since June. Namibia was already annoyed by a group of five Buganda clan chiefs whose actions nearly strained the cordial ties between the two nations. These chiefs, in their zealous loyalty, claimed the Kabaka had been kidnapped and exiled, turning Namibia into the latest hotbed of royal intrigue.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| May 2024 | Kabaka Mutebi II arrives in Namibia |
| June 2024 | Namibia expresses displeasure over chief’s behavior |
| July 9, 2024 | Okonguari Centre requests visa extension |
| July 10, 2024 | Uganda’s envoy reports Namibia’s irritation |
| July 12, 2024 | Clan chiefs return to Uganda |
| July 18, 2024 | Visa extension officially denied |
State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Henry Oryem Okello, weighed in with a diplomatic hat on: “Namibia isn’t interested in bad publicity. We need to respect their rules and sovereignty. Since the Kabaka went there, it’s been like a market with everyone coming and going as they please.”
At the time of press, Buganda authorities have remained tight-lipped on the matter. It seems the kingdom is choosing to handle this delicate situation with the utmost caution, likely preparing a strategic response.
Meanwhile, the Kabaka, revered leader of Uganda’s largest kingdom, is preparing to mark 31 years since his coronation on July 31, 2024. In a pre-recorded video released by the kingdom on July 1, he offered his subjects a glimmer of hope, promising he would be back home soon.
For now, it’s back to the drawing board for Buganda’s top brass as they navigate this royal hiccup.
