Nairobi Senator Babu Owino has issued a sharp response to Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni, following remarks perceived as provocative about regional affairs.
Owino sarcastically suggested that if Museveni truly wants Uganda to gain access to the Indian Ocean, the president should relinquish leadership to Kenya and let Uganda become “another Kenyan county.”
“If Museveni wants Uganda to stop being a landlocked country, he should relinquish its leadership to Kenya and let it become another county. That way, Ugandans would have free access to the Indian Ocean,” Owino remarked.
The statement reflects rising political rhetoric in East Africa, where historical, economic, and regional issues often spark strong reactions from leaders and citizens alike. Social media users quickly shared and debated the comment, with many praising Owino’s bold and humorous approach while others urged caution, warning that such remarks could escalate diplomatic tensions.
Political analysts note that while Owino’s comment is tongue-in-cheek, it underscores underlying frustrations about regional access to trade routes, sovereignty, and economic opportunity. Uganda, being landlocked, relies heavily on Kenya’s ports for trade, a factor that has occasionally triggered public and political debates.
As tensions simmer online, observers emphasize the need for diplomatic dialogue to resolve disputes, while noting that social media commentary continues to play a significant role in shaping public perception of East African politics.
