Uganda has distanced itself from political activities surrounding Kenya’s 2027 general elections, saying it has no interest in interfering in the internal political affairs of its neighbour.
First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga said Uganda respects the sovereignty of all East African Community (EAC) member states and will not take sides in Kenya’s political affairs.
Kadaga made the remarks on Wednesday during a press briefing in Kampala following concerns raised by political actors about Uganda’s alleged involvement in Kenya’s upcoming elections.
Kenya is scheduled to hold its general election on 10 August 2027, according to the Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission.
“I am here to allay fears that we have any interest in the political affairs of Kenya. We respect the sovereignty of each of the East African member states,” Kadaga said.
She also warned Ugandans living in districts bordering Kenya against involving themselves in Kenyan political campaigns or other election-related activities.
She said Ugandans in areas such as Busia, Bugiri and Namayingo should avoid participating in Kenyan politics because such involvement could expose them to problems with authorities or political actors across the border.
Kadaga said Uganda’s role in the region is to promote cooperation among EAC member states while respecting the independence and sovereignty of each country.
The minister’s comments come as political activity in Kenya begins to build ahead of the 2027 general election.
On the situation involving Ugandan traders in South Sudan, Kadaga said Uganda and South Sudan had started government-to-government discussions aimed at finding a lasting solution to complaints of harassment and restrictions affecting Ugandan businesses.
She said Uganda does not support the harassment of its citizens doing legitimate business in other EAC countries.
“We do not condone these acts, especially under the East African protocols where all member states can ably participate in the East African Common Market,” Kadaga said.
She, however, urged Ugandan traders operating outside the country to formally register their businesses and ensure that they have the necessary documents.
Kadaga said some Ugandans operate businesses informally in neighbouring countries, leaving them vulnerable when authorities demand proof of registration and details about the nature of their businesses.
“I am aware that many Ugandans operate their businesses informally, which is a big risk. Every country would want to see the documents and the type of business that a person is doing,” she said.
She said the government would continue using diplomatic engagement to address complaints involving Ugandan traders instead of retaliating against foreign nationals operating businesses in Uganda.
“We shall not chase South Sudan, but we can dialogue and have a lasting solution,” Kadaga said.
She said Uganda remains committed to regional trade and integration under the EAC framework, arguing that member states should resolve disputes through dialogue rather than actions that could undermine the Common Market.
Kadaga also urged Ugandans doing business in other countries to comply with local laws and regulations as a way of protecting their investments and avoiding unnecessary disputes with authorities.
