The Namibian government has refused a request to extend the visa for a Ugandan king who has been getting medical treatment in the country since April.

King Mutebi II of the Buganda has been receiving treatment for an undisclosed condition. The centre where he has been staying requested his visa extension earlier this month.

But in response, the international relations ministry said Namibian immigration law provided for a maximum stay of only 90 days in a year to foreign citizens.

This comes weeks after authorities reportedly expressed displeasure over protests by Ugandan activists at Namibian diplomatic missions.

“Having checked the records, I wish to inform you that the request for an extension is declined,” the state broadcaster NBC quoted a ministry official as saying.

The Ugandan envoy in South Africa said recently that Namibian authorities were unhappy over the harassment of their diplomatic officials regarding the king’s stay.

In May there were protests at the Namibian High Commission in the UK, with Ugandan demonstrators demanding transparency over the king’s extended stay.

During his stay in Namibia, King Mutebi II underwent medical treatment, which necessitated additional considerations for his privacy and well-being. Despite these personal challenges, the monarch remained committed to his duties, as evidenced by a video message he released to reassure his people in Buganda of his imminent return. This message, widely circulated on social media, underscored his determination to continue serving his kingdom even amidst diplomatic setbacks abroad.

The incident has raised questions about the treatment of visiting dignitaries, especially traditional leaders, and highlighted sensitivities around diplomatic engagements in Africa. Both the Buganda Kingdom and the Ugandan government have expressed disappointment over the handling of the situation, emphasizing the need for respect for diplomatic protocols and the dignified treatment of visiting dignitaries.

Efforts are underway to address the fallout from the incident and to find a resolution that upholds the integrity of cultural exchanges and diplomatic relations between Uganda and Namibia. As King Mutebi II prepares to conclude his visit, stakeholders are hopeful for a swift resolution that allows for the continuation of meaningful cooperation and cultural exchange between the two nations.