Diplomatic relations between Kenya and Uganda face fresh strain as Patriotic League of Uganda members plan to demonstrate against perceived unfair portrayal of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba in Kenyan media.
The scheduled protest comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding Dr. Kizza Besigye‘s detention after his contentious removal from Nairobi last year.
Media Coverage Sparks Cross-Border Controversy
Kenya’s The Standard newspaper recently featured Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba on its front page with the headline “Four-Star Brat,” showcasing the military leader in full regalia alongside excerpts from his controversial social media posts.
This bold editorial choice immediately triggered strong reactions from PLU supporters. Meanwhile, The Nairobian publication delved into what it termed the “love triangle” between Besigye, Byanyima, and Museveni, further inflaming tensions.
Kasambya County MP Daudi Kabanda, who serves as PLU’s general secretary, announced plans for an “energetic demonstration” at the Kenyan High Commission in Kampala next Wednesday.
“They burnt our High Commission last year and we did not respond, now one of their newspapers has insulted our PLU CHAIRMAN, we will respond with full force!” Kabanda declared.
Muhoozi’s Cryptic Response Heightens Concerns
Gen Muhoozi himself appeared to reference past tensions by posting a simple yet pointed message on X: “Uganda House in Nairobi, burning last year.” The post included an image of Uganda’s diplomatic mission engulfed in flames during Kenya’s Gen-Z protests.
Uganda House in Nairobi, burning last year! pic.twitter.com/1mYNtv9F59
— Muhoozi Kainerugaba (@mkainerugaba) February 28, 2025
This understated response marks a departure from Muhoozi’s typically provocative statements, including his infamous threat to capture Nairobi within two weeks.
Youth and Children’s Affairs minister Balaam Barugahara quickly amplified the message, stating, “We should not tolerate any affront to our national sovereignty.”
Besigye Case Complicates Bilateral Relations
The mounting tension occurs against the backdrop of Dr. Kizza Besigye’s continued detention.
The four-time presidential candidate and longtime opponent of President Museveni was reportedly abducted from Nairobi in November with alleged Kenyan government involvement.
Initially charged with treachery and illegal weapons possession in military court, Besigye’s case transferred to civilian jurisdiction after Uganda’s Supreme Court outlawed military tribunals in January.
He now faces charges of treason and misprision of treason while remaining in Luzira Prison.
PLU and Its Political Positioning
The Patriotic League of Uganda operates as what it terms a “civic organization” but functions within the structure of President Museveni’s National Resistance Movement party.
Gen Muhoozi, who chairs the PLU, is President Museveni’s son and serves as Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, creating a complex intertwining of military, political, and familial power.
This protest announcement represents the latest development in escalating regional tensions that have diplomatic, media, and humanitarian dimensions.
