Uganda's president apologizes over son's provocative tweet on Kenya

By Godfrey Olukya

KAMPALA, Uganda (AA) - Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni on Wednesday apologized over his son's tweet that his country could invade Kenya in two weeks.

The president also fired his son, Muhoozi Kainerugaba, from his position as the commander of land forces, but promoted him to the rank of general.

The reaction came after uproar from people in Uganda and Kenya who said such provocative remarks could result in war.

Muhoozi said in his tweet that his army could overrun Kenya's capital Nairobi in two weeks.

In the past, he commented on elections in Kenya saying then-President Uhuru Kenyatta should have stood for a third term.

In a statement, Museveni said sorry to Ugandans who were annoyed at one of their officials meddling in the affairs of brotherly neighbor Kenya.

However, defending his son, the president said: "I know for a fact that General Muhoozi is a passionate Pan-Africanist. However, the correct method for Pan-Africanists is confidential interactions or using the available fora."

Museveni said that he had already conveyed his apology to his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto.

Condemning the tweet, Ugandan opposition politician Bobi Wine said those who wish the country well should stop being indifferent.

Kizza Besigye, three-time contender for president, said maybe Muhoozi was planning to actually attack Kenya.