"Tame Your Son Or....." Museveni Told After Threat Of Conflict With Kenya Over Indian Ocean

Former Gatundu South MP Moses Kuria has voiced concern over remarks made by Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni, which appeared to question Kenya’s control over its Indian Ocean coastline. 

Kuria warned that such statements could strain the long-standing friendship between Kenya and Uganda, particularly amid rising tensions in the Horn of Africa.

Speaking during an interview with local media in Uganda, President Museveni suggested that no single country should claim exclusive rights to the Indian Ocean, likening the ocean to shared facilities in an apartment. 

The remarks were seen as provocative by many, especially since Museveni hinted at the possibility of military action to assert influence over Kenya’s coastal region, including Mombasa Port.

Kuria pointed out that this rhetoric might have been influenced by Museveni’s son, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, who heads the Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF). He emphasized that Uganda should focus on maintaining regional peace rather than creating unnecessary tensions with its neighbors. 

“If President Museveni does not rein in his son Muhoozi, his legacy risks being damaged. Kenya and Uganda have enjoyed a long-standing relationship. We must not allow jokes or provocative statements to escalate into conflict,” Kuria said.

The former MP’s comments come at a time when the Horn of Africa is already tense, with Ethiopia and Eritrea disputing access to the Red Sea. 

Kuria stressed that Kenya values its friendship with Uganda and urged both nations to prioritize diplomacy over threats.

Kenya’s government, meanwhile, has dismissed Museveni’s statements as non-threatening. Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’Oei, reassured Kenyans that the country remains committed to international law and peaceful resolutions. 

He emphasized that Kenya’s foreign policy, under President William Ruto’s administration, seeks to foster strong, cooperative relationships with all neighboring states.

This is not the first time General Muhoozi has made provocative statements regarding Kenya. A few years ago, he claimed he could lead Ugandan forces to invade Nairobi within two weeks, creating widespread concern online and among diplomats. 

Following the backlash, President Museveni publicly reprimanded his son and issued an apology, acknowledging that it was inappropriate for a public official, especially a military officer, to interfere in a neighboring country’s affairs.

Despite past incidents, Kuria believes vigilance is necessary. 

“Statements like these, even if made jokingly, can ignite fear and mistrust between nations. Leaders must guide their officials carefully to ensure that diplomacy is maintained,” he said.