The Kenya High Commissioner to Uganda, His Excellency Joash Maangi, has formally apologized to the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) General Muhoozi Kainerugaba over an article published in a Kenyan newspaper, The Standard, which was deemed disrespectful.
The article, titled “Four-star brat: Why Muhoozi, tweeting General could fuel anger and division in DRC talks”, questioned General Muhoozi’s judgment on regional and international affairs. The publication sparked outrage among supporters of the CDF, who demanded an apology and threatened to demonstrate at the Kenyan High Commission in Kampala. The protest was only called off after The Standard ran a more positive profile of General Muhoozi.
During a high-level meeting at the Special Forces Command (SFC) Headquarters in Entebbe, Ambassador Maangi, accompanied by Kenya’s Defence Attaché to Uganda, Colonel Patrick Kaduda, and other senior officials, expressed regret over the article. He emphasized that the government of Kenya had no involvement in its publication.
The newspaper subsequently issued a formal apology via social media, acknowledging General Muhoozi’s distinguished military career and contributions.
In his remarks, General Muhoozi reaffirmed that no issue, regardless of its scale, should weaken the historical ties between Uganda and Kenya. He emphasized the importance of mutual respect and dignity among leaders from both nations, stressing the need to uphold strong diplomatic relations.
The meeting concluded with an exchange of symbolic 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 delegation a copy of the President’s autobiography, a book showcasing Uganda’s tourism attractions, and Ugandan coffee.
This diplomatic resolution underscores the commitment of both nations to maintaining strong, respectful, and cooperative relations.
