Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, has apologized to Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, following the publication of a controversial article in a Kenyan newspaper, The Standard. The article, titled “Four-star brat: Why Muhoozi, tweeting General could fuel anger and division in DRC talks,” questioned Muhoozi’s judgment on regional and international affairs, sparking backlash from his supporters.
Kenya Denies Government Involvement
Ambassador Maangi, accompanied by Kenya’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Colonel Patrick Kaduda, and other senior officials, met with General Muhoozi at the Special Forces Command Headquarters in Entebbe. The meeting also included senior Ugandan military officials, such as Brig Gen Paul Namawa and Col Christopher Muwumba.
During the meeting, the Kenyan delegation clarified that the Kenyan government was not involved in the publication of the article. They assured General Muhoozi that the views expressed in the newspaper did not reflect the official position of Kenya’s leadership.
The Apology and Standard Newspaper’s Response
Following outrage from Muhoozi’s supporters, who had threatened to protest at the Kenyan High Commission in Kampala, The Standard later published a positive profile of Muhoozi. The newspaper also issued a formal apology on X (formerly Twitter), acknowledging the CDF’s military achievements.
Ambassador Maangi personally extended an apology to Muhoozi, expressing regret over the publication and emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to strong diplomatic relations with Uganda.
Muhoozi Calls for Stronger Ties
In response, General Muhoozi reaffirmed the importance of Uganda-Kenya relations. He stressed that no issue, regardless of its magnitude, should weaken the historical bond between the two nations. He also called for mutual respect and dignity between leaders from both countries.
Exchange of Gifts
The meeting ended with a symbolic exchange of gifts. Ambassador Maangi presented traditional Kenyan attire and a lion sculpture, a gift from Kenya’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Charles Kahiriri. In return, General Muhoozi gifted the Kenyan delegation a copy of the Ugandan President’s autobiography, a book on Uganda’s tourist attractions, and Ugandan coffee.
This visit aimed to ease tensions and reinforce the diplomatic ties between Kenya and Uganda after the media controversy.