Ugandan King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s medical visit to Namibia has come to an end after the Namibian government denied his request for a visa extension.
King Mutebi, who arrived in April for private medical treatment, was granted a 90-day visa upon entry.
The decision follows a series of events that strained relations between Namibia and Uganda.
Rumors of the king’s abduction by the Namibian government sparked protests by some of King Mutebi’s supporters at Namibian embassies abroad.
The Namibian Ministry of Home Affairs condemned these demonstrations, stating they “interfered greatly with the operations and security” of their diplomatic missions.
Namibia claims to have engaged with both the Ugandan government and the Buganda royal family.
However, with “disruptive activities” continuing, they ultimately declined to extend King Mutebi’s visa after its expiration.
Both Ugandan and Namibian authorities, along with the king’s medical team, were notified of the decision.
ugandan king’s abduction rumors spark visa dispute
While the Ugandan government maintains “excellent relations” with Namibia, they acknowledge the politicization of the king’s visit and the embarrassment caused by the protests.
King Mutebi’s health condition remains undisclosed. It’s unclear if the 69-year-old monarch has already departed Namibia.
