NATIONAL | Faustin-Archange Touadéra was the only Head of State to grace Uganda's 62nd Independence Anniversary celebrations in Busia on Wednesday.
Central African Republic President Touadéra, going by what transpired at the event in the border town of Busia, had the economic interest in mind when he jetted in.
Kenya's William Ruto, just across the border, was also not present as was the usual fixture Salva Kiir of South Sudan.
There were rumours that Mr Kiir was not well but a source in J1, the South Sudan presidential palace, said he was perfectly well.
So why weren't there at least regional heads of state at the event? Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Burundi, South Sudan, and DR Congo were all no-show.
Sources say regional heads of state and government had separate itinerary for the Second Nile Basin Summit that was scheduled for October 17 in Munyonyo.
To come for Independence Day fete and then back again a week later would prove costly yet the Nile Basin had a special significance for the region and one they had to attend.
The Nile Basin Initiative is an intergovernmental partnership of 10 Nile Basin countries of Uganda, Burundi, DR Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, The Sudan, and Tanzania.
Eritrea participates as an observer.
However, the Nile Post a developing story that the summit has been cancelled. Details on why it has been put off remains scanty.
