Namibia Denies Visa Extension for Buganda King Mutebi II Amid Protests and Diplomatic Concerns

 – The Namibian government has denied a request to extend the visa of King Mutebi II of Buganda, who has been in the country since April for medical treatment. The denial, announced by a Namibian international relations ministry official and reported by the state broadcaster NBC, is based on the country’s immigration law, which permits a maximum stay of 90 days per year for foreign citizens.

The visa extension request was made by the medical center where King Mutebi II has been receiving treatment. This decision comes in the wake of recent protests by Ugandan activists at Namibian diplomatic missions. Demonstrations have been held demanding transparency about the king's stay, with activists protesting at the Namibian High Commission in the UK in May, calling for clarity on the king's condition and location to counteract kidnapping rumors.

Namibian authorities have referred the matter to Buganda traditional authorities. Two weeks ago, Buganda chiefs traveled to Namibia to inquire about the king's health, which led to diplomatic tensions. The Ugandan President, Yoweri Museveni, criticized the chiefs' unauthorized visit, urging Ugandans to stop "embarrassing Uganda." The visiting delegation was briefly detained by Namibian officials.

In response to the protests and diplomatic stir, King Mutebi II addressed his subjects in a video, assuring them of his improving health and hopeful return. Namibian foreign relations officer Erastus Hailwa stated that it is standard protocol for foreign nationals to depart after a 90-day stay.

Uganda has acknowledged Namibia’s decision, with Foreign Minister Henry Oryem Okello emphasizing respect for Namibian laws and customs, noting that many have exploited the country’s hospitality.

Buganda, the largest of Uganda's ancient kingdoms, holds significant cultural influence despite its lack of political power. The Namibian government’s decision has prompted mixed reactions, highlighting the delicate balance between respecting immigration laws and addressing diplomatic and cultural sensitivities.