Buganda Kingdom Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, announced that Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II is pleased with the way the Baganda have resisted attempts by certain individuals to incite unrest against the leadership at Mengo.
Mayiga made these remarks this morning during a Lukiiko conference (Buganda Parliament) at Bulange Mengo, where the Kingdom’s budget for the financial year 2024/25 was presented.
During his address, Mayiga conveyed a message from Kabaka Mutebi regarding recent concerns among the Baganda about the King’s prolonged absence and his health.
Kabaka Mutebi was last seen in March, shortly before his birthday run on April 7, 2024, at Mengo. His extended absence and limited updates from Mengo have fueled public anxiety, which Mayiga attributed to opportunistic individuals pursuing selfish agendas.
“Last evening at 6 PM, I spoke on the phone with the Kabaka. He is pleased with the Kingdom’s progress and the Baganda’s rejection of those trying to exploit his illness for cheap popularity. These individuals seek to benefit from the Kabaka’s illness for their gain,” Mayiga said.
Without naming names, Mayiga criticized certain individuals, believed to be supporters of the opposition National Unity Platform (NUP), who have been vocal about the Kabaka’s situation.
He highlighted the contradiction of those who initially demanded the Kabaka be taken abroad for treatment and are now claiming he is being held captive.
“These opportunists constantly seek something to accuse us of. They don’t even feel ashamed when the truth emerges. Do they think the Kabaka is a street kid? He is not an ordinary person who can be kidnapped and held captive,” Mayiga remarked angrily.
Mayiga warned that the recent agitation is aimed at inciting mass protests to serve selfish interests. “Be cautious of these individuals,” he advised.
The Katikkiro, who is rumored to support Hon. Mathias Mpuuga in a political rivalry within the NUP against president Robert Kyagulanyi, expressed his disdain for the “uncultured behavior” of some leaders who use personal attacks to maintain their political standing.
At a thanksgiving event held by Mpuuga over the weekend, which Mayiga was supposed to attend as the chief guest, Kyagulanyi instructed his loyalists not to participate. Nonetheless, the event saw significant attendance.
In a general message of advice, Mayiga urged politicians to show respect and seek reconciliation instead of engaging in continuous conflicts.
He emphasized that the growing culture of abusive language among political rivals threatens the progress of Buganda and Uganda as a whole.
“The voters are watching. Have a conversation over a cup of coffee and discuss matters like mature individuals,” Mayiga advised.
