Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash A. Maangi, has formally requested a meeting with Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, following a controversial article published by The Standard newspaper.
In a letter dated March 8, the High Commission expressed concern over the publication’s remarks about Gen. Kainerugaba, stating that the issue could affect the long-standing diplomatic ties between Kenya and Uganda.
“The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the recent publication by The Standard Newspaper of Friday, 28th February 2025, which appeared to disparage the office and the person of the Chief of Uganda’s People Defence Forces, contrary to the longstanding cordial diplomatic relations between Kenya and the Republic of Uganda,” the letter reads.
The Standard initially published an article that many perceived as malicious, prompting a strong response from Gen. Kainerugaba. He warned that the newspaper’s owner, Gideon Moi, could face repercussions, including business losses in Uganda.
“I hear @StandardKenya is owned by Gideon Moi. He thinks abusing me is a simple thing? He will never make a shilling in Uganda again! We are going for ALL his businesses,” Muhoozi wrote on X on February 25.
He later doubled down, stating: “We are taking action on NEO-COLONIAL media based in Kenya like @StandardKenya. It is going to be completely BANNED in Uganda!”
Following the backlash, The Standard published a follow-up piece on March 4, this time highlighting Gen. Kainerugaba’s military career and praising his leadership. The newspaper posted on X, saying:
“Following our publication on Muhoozi Kainerugaba, fresh details have emerged on the General known for being both tough and fun. Muhoozi, reputed to mean business, is respected by his peers and across the rank and file. Yet, he also has a taste for the finer things in life.”
Despite this shift in tone, the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU) announced plans for a demonstration at the Kenyan High Commission in Kampala. PLU Secretary General David Kabanda stated that while they were reviewing The Standard’s apology, the demonstration scheduled for tomorrow would still proceed.
“We are still analysing this apology, we shall give our response later. Our peaceful demonstration scheduled for tomorrow still stands,” he said.
The meeting between Gen. Kainerugaba and Ambassador Maangi is expected to address the diplomatic concerns surrounding the publication and the ongoing tensions it has sparked.
