Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, the monarch of Buganda, returned to Uganda on the morning of Monday, July 22, after his visa extension in Namibia was denied.

His return was marked by a warm welcome from his wife, Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda, and Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga.

Among those present were Princess Royal Agnes Nabaloga, Prince Crispin Jjunju Kiweewa, and Princess Victoria Nkinzi.

The Kabaka had been abroad for nearly three months, travelling to Namibia for medical treatment on April 12. He received care at the Okonguari Psychotherapeutic Centre in the Kunene Region. However, his stay was cut short due to the Namibian government’s refusal to extend his visa, a decision influenced by controversy among his subjects.

Etienne Maritz, the executive director of Immigration, Safety, and Security, explained that some subjects of the Buganda Kingdom were uninformed about their king’s travels, leading to rumours and allegations of illegal detention by the Namibian government. This resulted in demonstrations at Namibian diplomatic missions worldwide, posing a threat to diplomatic staff and operations.

“These unfounded allegations were intended to damage Namibia’s international reputation and bilateral relations with Uganda,” Maritz said. He clarified that the Kabaka’s visit was purely private and medical, and Namibia had no intention of interfering with it.

The Namibian authorities engaged with Ugandan officials and the Royal family, urging them to curb the disruptive activities of the Kabaka’s subjects, but these efforts proved ineffective. Consequently, Namibia decided not to extend the Kabaka’s visa.

Maritz emphasized that Namibia, as a sovereign state, has the right to enforce its laws and international regulations. He noted that the decision was made to protect the security of Namibian diplomatic personnel and maintain the country’s legal and international obligations.

Dr. Daleen de Lange, Executive Director at the Okonguari Psychotherapeutic Centre, had requested an extension of Kabaka’s stay due to ongoing medical treatment in a letter dated July 9. Despite this appeal, the Namibian government stood firm on its decision.

Kabaka Mutebi II arrived back in Uganda on Ethiopian Airlines flight number 338, concluding a period of medical treatment and diplomatic tension.