The Ministry of Internal Affairs has confirmed the removal of New Zealand citizen Reid Samuel James, popularly known as “Muzungu Boda” on social media, for engaging in unauthorized activities while in Uganda.
Addressing reporters at Naguru Police Headquarters, Internal Affairs Ministry spokesperson Simon Peter Mundeyi explained that Reid entered Uganda on a tourist visa but deviated from its terms.
“He had started a non-governmental organization claiming to care for orphans, yet he lacked the necessary permits,” Mundeyi said.
Mundeyi clarified that Reid’s removal was not a deportation, which is ordered by a court of law or the Minister of Internal Affairs, but an organized departure.
“If a foreigner is working on an improper visa, they are allowed to return after acquiring the correct documents. Reid may return if he fulfills immigration requirements,” he added.
Mundeyi revealed troubling incidents involving Reid, including videos posted online. In one, he drifted a motorcycle carrying children, causing them to fall and injure themselves. In another, he grabbed bananas from a woman’s head before kissing her breast, an act viewed as sexual assault under Ugandan law. Although he compensated her with UGX 10,000, the incident drew significant backlash.
“We questioned his state of mind based on these recordings,” Mundeyi said,
He also revealed Reid’s disruptive behavior at Entebbe Airport during his removal where he states that he yelled at government workers with badges.
“He became a self-proclaimed government spokesman, talking about potholes.” he added.
Mundeyi further clarified that Reid was removed alongside other undocumented foreigners, with the ministry reiterating its commitment to enforcing immigration regulations while maintaining Uganda’s hospitality.
Reid, who had gained popularity for his social media commentary on Ugandan life, including criticism of potholes and local issues, had been operating without a valid work permit.
