Uganda Government Reacts Angrily to Suspension of Entebbe-London Gatwick Flight
UK Foreign Secretary Cites Human Rights Concerns The suspension was reportedly influenced by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who raised concerns over Uganda’s human rights record and its diplomatic ties with Russia. The development has drawn sharp criticism from Kampala, with Uganda’s Government Spokesperson, Ofwono Opondo, denouncing what he described as “blatant hypocrisy and neo-colonial arrogance” by the UK government.
Uganda Today Edition: Uganda Government Reacts Angrily to Suspension of Entebbe-London Gatwick Flight
KAMPALA – Uganda Today
UK Suspends Uganda Airlines’ Direct Flight
The Ugandan government has issued a scathing condemnation of the United Kingdom following the abrupt suspension of Uganda Airlines’ direct flights between Entebbe International Airport and London Gatwick. The decision comes despite the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) having initially granted approval for the route, a move that had been widely celebrated as a milestone in Uganda’s aviation expansion.
UK Foreign Secretary Cites Human Rights Concerns
The suspension was reportedly influenced by UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who raised concerns over Uganda’s human rights record and its diplomatic ties with Russia. The development has drawn sharp criticism from Kampala, with Uganda’s Government Spokesperson, Ofwono Opondo, denouncing what he described as “blatant hypocrisy and neo-colonial arrogance” by the UK government. Read Uganda Today earlier story on suspension
Uganda Government Slams UK’s Double Standards
In a strongly worded statement, Opondo lambasted Lammy’s stance as selective and politically motivated. “The UK has no moral authority to lecture Uganda on human rights while turning a blind eye to atrocities committed by its allies,” he said. He accused the British government of double standards, citing its silence on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza while selectively targeting Uganda for alleged human rights violations.
Opondo further likened Lammy’s approach to the erratic and imperialist tendencies he has previously criticized in Western politics. “Uganda does not need permission from the UK to conduct its affairs, nor do we take orders from transient political figures with no consistency in their policies,” he stated.
Uganda Vows to Continue Aviation Expansion
The Ugandan government remains resolute in its determination to expand Uganda Airlines’ international footprint and views the UK’s interference as an unacceptable attempt to undermine its sovereignty. “The era of Western dictates is over. Uganda will chart its own course based on its national interests, and those who attempt to derail our progress will find themselves on the wrong side of history,” Opondo asserted.
Next Steps for Uganda Airlines
The suspension of the direct flights is seen as a setback for Uganda Airlines, which had aimed to capitalize on the route to enhance trade and tourism between Uganda and the UK. However, officials in Kampala have vowed to pursue alternative strategies to ensure the continued growth of the national carrier.
Diplomatic Implications
The UK government has yet to issue an official response to Uganda’s reaction, but diplomatic tensions are expected to rise as the matter unfolds. Uganda maintains that its foreign policy and partnerships will not be dictated by external powers, and it will continue seeking international collaborations that align with its national interests.
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