Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni hosted President William Ruto and former Prime Minister Raila Odinga on Monday, February 26.
In a statement, Museveni revealed that the two Kenyan leaders visited him at his farm in Kisozi.
Museveni explained that they talked issues involving Kenya, Uganda and the East African Community (EAC).
“I was happy to meet President Ruto and Rt. Hon. Odinga this afternoon at my farm in Kisozi.
We discussed issues of mutual interest between our two countries and the East African Community. I welcome them,” said Museveni.
Ruto Reveals Details of the Meeting
Speaking after the meeting, President Ruto said the issues affecting the flow of petroleum products between Kenya and Uganda are being resolved.
“We have agreed on a way forward of sourcing and scheduling imports for the region in a manner that will ensure we achieve the most competitive pricing and maximum logistical efficiency,” he said in a statement on X.
Additionally, he explained that they discussed the need for the two countries to urgently pursue the design and construction of the earlier conceptualized Eldoret-Kampala-Kigali refined petroleum product pipeline.
“Also discussed was the declared candidacy of Kenya’s former Prime Minister Raila Odinga for the Africa Union Commission chairmanship,” Ruto wrote on Facebook.
Raila AUC Chairperson Bid Agenda
In agreement with Museveni, Raila said they discussed issues regarding the EAC adding that it was Museveni who invited him for a joint meeting with Ruto.
“Several days ago, I accepted an invitation from President Museveni of Uganda for a joint meeting with President Ruto today to discuss the deepening of regional integration within the EAC,” said Raila.
Besides, Raila said they discussed his candidacy for the African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson position.
He revealed both the two head of states endorsed him for AUC Chairperson role.
“Crucially, at the urging of President Museveni, we also discussed my candidacy for Chairperson of the African Union Commission,” said Raila.
“I am very grateful to President Museveni for strongly endorsing my candidacy and to President Ruto for fully backing it.”
Raila and Ruto also visited President Museveni’s cattle farm in Kisozi.
Also Read: Uhuru, Museveni Hold Second Closed-Door Meeting in Two Weeks
Raila’s AUC Bid
The meeting came after Raila declared his bid for the AUC Chairperson position.
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo also endorsed Raila for the job noting that he was a man with experience.
According to Obasanjo, the AU needed a person who came from a background that could make a difference in the continent.
“We need a person with experience and who understands the situation Africa is in, and who comes from a background that can make a difference to take charge of AU.
“I have no doubt in my mind that my friend will make the right candidate,” said Obasanjo.
Also Read: How Raila’s AU Job Will Change 2027 Elections – Experts
Kenya-Uganda Fuel Row
On December 28, 2023, Uganda filed a lawsuit against Kenya at the East African Court of Justice, seeking a judicial resolution in the disputed oil importation agreement.
Uganda’s Attorney General on December 28, 2023, accused Kenya of blocking the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) from awarding the country a license to import oil through Mombasa Port.
Furthermore, Uganda stated that it imports around 90% of its refined petroleum products through the Port of Mombasa in Kenya.
The products are then transported to Uganda through the Kenyan Pipeline Company Limited (KPC).
Ugandan government had earlier changed its policies regarding the sourcing, importation, and delivery of petroleum products for the Ugandan market.
The Museveni led administration authorized the Applicant, through Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC), to be the sole importer and supplier of all petroleum products for the Ugandan market.
