By Tonny Waako
The Namibian government has refused a visa extension for King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II of Buganda, who is currently hospitalized in Namibia. This decision was revealed by Etienne Maritza, the Executive Director of Immigration in Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
In a letter, Maritza clarified that the decision was made due to increasing pressure and rumors suggesting that the Namibian government was collaborating with Ugandan authorities to detain the king. This speculation led to significant social media pressure demanding the release of Kabaka Mutebi II.
Subjects of the Kabaka have voiced their concerns, claiming that the denial of the visa extension is akin to detention, negatively impacting Namibia’s diplomatic relations with the global community.
On Wednesday, July 17, 2024, King Mutebi II’s visa extension was officially denied. The king had entered Namibia on April 14 for a private medical visit and was admitted to an unidentified hospital.
The situation continues to develop as both Buganda’s subjects and international observers await further clarification from Namibian authorities on their decision. The denial has raised questions about the treatment of foreign dignitaries and the implications for diplomatic relations between Namibia and Uganda.
