Ministry of Internal Affairs Spokesperson Clarifies: It Was Organized Departure, Not Deportation for Muzungu Boda
Simon Peter Mundeyi, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Internal Affairs, recently discussed the removal of Raid Samuel James, commonly known as Muzungu Boda, from Uganda.
In a media interview, Mundeyi explained that Muzungu Boda had violated the conditions of his tourist visa by engaging in activities that were not permitted.
Mundeyi clarified that Muzungu Boda arrived in Uganda on a three-month tourist visa but soon acted beyond the scope of what was allowed.
One major violation, according to Mundeyi, was registering a company named Muzungu Boda. Large banners advertising this company were displayed in Kisasi and Bweyogerere, which directly violated the terms of his tourist visa.
The spokesperson also noted that Muzungu Boda claimed to run a charity organization to assist Ugandans in need. This was another unauthorized activity, as the tourist visa does not allow any form of employment or business dealings.
Mundeyi raised concerns about the nature of the content Muzungu Boda was creating, as it seemed to cause distress to some of the individuals involved.
He also noted that Muzungu Boda had recorded and shared videos of flooded areas and potholes in the industrial area, actions he said contributed to portraying the country negatively.
When summoned and questioned by immigration officials, Muzungu Boda admitted to registering a company, according to Mundeyi.
He explained that starting a business in Uganda requires adhering to legal procedures, including paying taxes and obtaining a work permit: requirements he said Muzungu Boda had ignored.
As a result of these violations, it was decided that Muzungu Boda would be sent back to New Zealand under what is known as an “organized departure.”
Mundeyi clarified that this was not deportation, which would prevent him from returning to Uganda. Instead, an organized departure allows Muzungu Boda to return to Uganda once he has the proper documents for engaging in business or employment activities.
Mundeyi stressed that while Uganda is a welcoming country, its immigration laws must be respected, just as other countries enforce strict regulations.
He concluded by pointing out that New Zealand also has strict immigration laws, questioning why Muzungu Boda thought he could violate Uganda’s laws without consequences.
