Buganda chiefs released by Namibian police as Mayiga blocks their Kabaka visit

• They were on their way to check on Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi
• Arrested about 4 kilometres from Okonguarri Psychotherapeutic Centre
• Chiefs detained for more than 3 hours and told they needed permission to meet the king

The clan chiefs were arrested by police about 4 kilometres from Okonguarri Psychotherapeutic Centre in Namibia’s northwestern region of Kunene, where the king is receiving treatment.

These had travelled to Namibia early last week to try and “get the truth” about the whereabouts and well-being of the king. They, however, left with no clearance from the Kingdom administration, stressing that they did not need it.

On Tuesday, the chiefs drove over 300km north of Namibia to see the monarch.

A short distance out, they made a stop at the Okonguarri health facility's signpost and took pictures, before carrying on with their journey.

However, they were soon to be stopped by the Police who questioned them about the purpose of their visit.

Trip not cleared

They were later driven to Outjo Police where they were detained for more than 3 hours.

Here, they were informed that they could not proceed to meet with the king without permission from Charles Peter Mayiga, the Prime Minister of Buganda and Uganda's Deputy High Commissioner to South Africa and Namibia, Kintu Nyango.

The detained clan chiefs include Eria Buzaabo Lwasi (Ndiga), Kasirye Mbugeramula (Nvuma), Deus Mawesano Kyeyune (Ngaali) Sheba Kakande Kibirige (Ngeye) and Godfrey Katende of Olugave clan

Before their release, the chiefs were asked to contact the embassy in Pretoria.

Meanwhile, in Kampala, Katikkiro Mayiga yesterday condemned the actions of the chiefs warning the people of Uganda to “watch out for those who pretend to love the Kabaka more than his own family.”

The Premier insists that all information regarding the health of the Kabaka must come directly through him or the royal family.