Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II has condemned individuals who exploited his recent health issues to tarnish the kingdom’s reputation and spread misinformation. Speaking via video link during his 31st coronation anniversary thanksgiving service at St Paul’s Cathedral Namirembe in Kampala yesterday, Kabaka Mutebi urged unity and vigilance against such harmful actions.
“We have always urged you to unite to guard and honour our cultural norms. The enemy can take advantage of this if we don’t take these issues seriously,” Kabaka Mutebi said. He criticized those who, either out of ignorance or deliberately, have abused and misrepresented the kingdom’s norms, warning that their actions are dangerous and confusing to the people of Buganda.
This marks the monarch’s first public statement since returning from Namibia, where he received medical care. During his address, Kabaka Mutebi outlined three key issues for his subjects to focus on: the non-elective nature of the Kabaka’s position, the importance of following traditional rituals, and the Kabaka’s authority to institute and remove certain practices as needed.
Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga explained that Kabaka Mutebi cannot yet interact with the public due to medical advice. He urged patience, emphasizing that the monarch’s health is a priority. “The only thing I need the most right now is to secure access to my son’s grave. The land we use to access it does not belong to us and the owner agreed to sell but needs 350 million,” she stated.
The coronation anniversary, celebrated under the theme “Our Unity is the Kingdom’s Strength,” highlighted Kabaka Mutebi’s efforts to associate with different people, tribes, and clans, fostering peace within the kingdom. Katikkiro Mayiga warned against those seeking to weaken the kingdom for personal gain, emphasizing that while disruptions may occur, the kingdom cannot be defeated.
Bishop Moses Banja, who led the thanksgiving service, stressed the importance of unity in protecting and strengthening the Kabaka’s seat. He condemned the disrespectful acts exhibited during the Kabaka’s treatment in Namibia and praised Katikkiro Mayiga for his steadfastness amid the attacks.
The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, the Most Rt Rev Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, thanked God for enabling the Kabaka and his subjects to celebrate the 31st coronation anniversary. The event was attended by officials from the central government and other kingdoms, including Bunyoro and Tooro, and featured presentations from various schools.
Songs and poems presented at the occasion condemned the disrespect shown to Katikkiro Mayiga during the Kabaka’s treatment and praised the programmes initiated during Kabaka Mutebi’s reign, particularly in agriculture, health, and education.
