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Kabaka Mutebi Kabaka called for unity at his 31st coronation
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The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi, revealed that his recent illness has exposed enemies of Buganda. Speaking via live stream from his palace in Banda, Kampala, during the 31st coronation anniversary at St. Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe, he used a Kiganda proverb to illustrate how true friends and enemies are revealed in difficult times.
The Kabaka lamented that some people, either out of ignorance or malice, undermined Buganda’s culture during his hospitalization. He emphasized the importance of unity and respect for Buganda’s norms and values. Recently, there have been negative narratives about the Kabaka’s health and whereabouts. Mutebi's health has been a significant topic, with concerns over the lack of transparency. He spent three months receiving medical treatment in Namibia, which led to speculation and anxiety among his subjects.
Kingdom premier Charles Peter Mayiga faced criticism for not providing detailed updates, with accusations of hiding information about the Kabaka’s health. Five clan heads (abataka ab’obusolya) attempted to visit the Kabaka in Namibia but were arrested by Namibian Police for not seeking approval from Buganda senior officials. Upon the Kabaka’s return from Namibia, the Katikkiro addressed the media, warning against individuals who spread falsehoods about the Kabaka’s condition to cause divisions within the kingdom. Prince Jjunju Kiweewa, speaking on behalf of the royal family, also called for privacy regarding the Kabaka’s health.
Sylvia Nagginda, Queen of Buganda attending service
The Kabaka assured his subjects that, despite being away for treatment, he was aware of the ongoing issues in the Kingdom. He warned against those misleading the public about the throne and the kingdom. The Kabaka explained that there are elaborate cultural procedures for crowning and installing the Kabaka, and he presides over the leadership with the help of the Katikkiro, whom he elects. He thanked the medical professionals for their care and mentioned that he is still receiving treatment.
During the service, St. Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe was filled with songs of praise, with hundreds adoring God for granting the Kabaka life and wisdom to lead Buganda for 31 years. The congregation included the Nabageeraka (queen) of Buganda, Sylvia Nagginda, Mayiga, Prince Richard Ssemakokiro, Prince David Wassajja, and Princess Dorothy Nassolo, who delivered a reading from I Peter 2:11-17. Delegations from Bunyoro and Toro Kingdoms were led by their respective Prime Ministers, Andrew Byakutaga Ateenyi and Steven Kiyingi. Bishop Moses Banja, who presided over the service, thanked God for protecting the Kabaka and enabling him to strengthen the throne, especially during challenging times, including his illness.
Some of the congregants
Bishop Banja also lauded the Kabaka for initiatives like coffee growing, which ensure the wellbeing of Buganda’s people. He urged the congregation to protect land rights in Buganda for growth and development and condemned the reckless use of social media to violate the kingdom’s dignity.
Mayiga confirmed that the Kabaka was at his palace in Banda, Wakiso district, presiding over the kingdom. He urged the subjects to remain calm and prioritize the Kabaka’s health, following doctors’ guidance.
Torch Media Africa
