The Ministry of Internal Affairs has clarified the circumstances surrounding the departure of popular social media commentator Reid Samuel James, popularly known as Muzungu Boda.
During a press conference held on Monday at the Ministry of Internal Affairs, officials refuted claims that the New Zealand content creator had been deported. Instead, they emphasized that he was “peacefully sent back to his country of origin.”
Muzungu Boda, known for his engaging videos highlighting Uganda’s culture, people, and boda-boda experiences, has garnered a substantial following on social media.
His departure from the country sparked speculation, with some alleging that he had been expelled due to undisclosed controversies.
Internal Affairs spokesperson Simon Mundeyi stated that Muzungu Boda was removed from the country for engaging in work without a valid work permit.
“He was found running a charitable NGO without a work permit. This formed basis of his organsied removal .It was an organized departure and he returned to his home country in New Zealand,” Mundeyi said.
Mundeyi explained that, unlike deportation authorized by the Minister of Internal Affairs or a court of law and which prohibits re-entry into the country an organized removal allows an individual to return.
He added that Muzungu Boda can also return to Uganda, provided he obtains the necessary documentation permitting him to work in the country.
The ministry stated that Muzungu Boda’s content raised concerns about a possible mental health issue. As a result, he was sent back to his country to allow for confirmation and assessment of his mental state.
“We don’t know if he was in his right mind, he recorded videos doing bizarre things, such as drifting with children, some of whom hit their heads on the ground and cried while he laughed. In another video, he was seen running towards an elderly woman, grabbing her matooke, and kissing her. Such behavior cannot be tolerated,” Mundeyi said.
Mundeyi added that even at the departure, he was yelling at whoever was putting on a Ugandan badge, he had also turned to be a self-appointed government spokesperson, talking about potholes here and there, talking uncoordinated things. “So peacefully we sent him to his country and reorganize himself,” Mundeyi added.
Reid Samuel, popularly known as “Muzungu Boda,” gained fame through his TikTok skits highlighting unconventional ways of earning a living. However, the Ministry emphasized that all foreign nationals must adhere to Uganda’s employment and residency laws.
