First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for East African Community Affairs Rebecca Kadaga has assured Kenya that Uganda is not interfering in its electoral process amid allegations that Ugandan nationals are being registered as voters in Kenya.
Kadaga said Wednesday that the Ugandan Government has no role in Kenya’s elections and cautioned against turning allegations involving individuals into suspicion against Ugandans living and working in Kenya.
“Let us state clearly that the Government of Uganda has no role in, and does not interfere with, the electoral processes of the Republic of Kenya,” Kadaga said.
She said Uganda remains concerned about the safety and treatment of its citizens in neighbouring countries, including complaints over restrictions on Ugandan-owned businesses in South Sudan.
“Allegations against particular individuals must not be transformed into collective suspicion against Ugandans living or working in Kenya,” she said.
Kadaga acknowledged South Sudan’s authority to regulate businesses operating within its territory but said Ugandan traders should be treated fairly.
“Such regulation should be exercised consistently, without discrimination, and in a manner that respects applicable domestic laws, bilateral commitments and the broader principles of the East African Community,” she said.
She urged Ugandan traders affected by restrictions in South Sudan to document their complaints, losses and business disruptions and report them through Uganda’s diplomatic missions.
The concerns come amid previous complaints by Ugandan traders operating in neighbouring countries about bureaucratic procedures, licensing requirements and other restrictions.
The Parliamentary Committee on East African Community Affairs has repeatedly raised concerns over non-tariff barriers and insecurity affecting Ugandan traders in the region.
In April 2025, the committee called for stronger regional mechanisms to address insecurity after Ugandan cross-border traders reported killings, destruction of property and other attacks in parts of the region, including South Sudan.
Kadaga said Uganda would continue to pursue the concerns through diplomatic and legal channels while maintaining good relations with its neighbours.
“Good neighbourliness must never mean silence where the safety, dignity and lawful economic interests of Ugandan citizens are threatened,” she said.
“Uganda will defend the legitimate interests of its citizens firmly, responsibly and through established diplomatic and legal channels.”Kadaga was speaking to journalists at Kingdom House in Kampala on Wednesday-URN. Give us feedback on this story through our email: kamwokyatimes@gmail.com
