By Press Patriot Corps
Vice President Jesicca Alupo found herself embroiled in an online controversy after her social media team mistakenly posted outdated photos while congratulating Rwandan President Paul Kagame on his recent inauguration.
The incident took place on X (formerly known as Twitter) when Alupo, fresh from representing President Yoweri Museveni at Kagame’s inauguration in Kigali, shared a message congratulating the Rwandan leader on his fourth term. However, the post was accompanied by photos from Kagame’s 2017 inauguration, which notably featured former Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, who was not present at the recent ceremony.
Social media users quickly noticed the error. One user, Calvin Mutsinzi, pointed out, “H.E @jessica_alupo, the photos you shared from yesterday’s inauguration mistakenly include former Sudan President Omar al-Bashir, who wasn’t present. This has caused some confusion. Please update with the correct images to ensure accurate information is shared. Thank you.”
In response to the mounting criticism, Alupo’s social media team swiftly deleted the post, but the damage had already been done. The error sparked widespread commentary, with many expressing disappointment over the oversight.
Musa Bobo, another user, commented, “Your Excellency, it’s good that you deleted because eh! Anyways, you saved us yet another embarrassment.”
The incident led to calls for stronger measures against the social media team responsible for the mistake. Some commenters suggested that those involved should be held accountable, with a few even calling for their dismissal.
In an effort to address the backlash, the Vice President’s press secretary, Pamela Ankunda, issued a public apology. “I’ve received so many calls and messages regarding the mistakes on VP’s X handle. I thank everyone who’s had the presence of mind to reach out. While there is no excuse for such mediocrity, I deeply apologize on behalf of the press team. The handler stands cautioned and will do better,” Ankunda stated.
Despite the online furor, Vice President Alupo continued with her official duties, having arrived in Rwanda on Saturday, August 10. She was officially received at the Katuna border by the Rwandan Minister of Environment and the Ugandan Ambassador to Rwanda.
Earlier, she had congratulated the people of Rwanda for conducting a peaceful presidential election. President Kagame’s inauguration, held at the 45,000-seat Amahoro Stadium in Kigali, was attended by numerous heads of state and dignitaries from across Africa. Kagame, who won the July 15 election with an overwhelming 99.18 percent of the vote, pledged to continue his efforts to maintain peace, national sovereignty, and unity in Rwanda.
