The clan heads of the Buganda Kingdom were taken aback upon discovering that Queen Mother Sylivia Nagginda Luswata is not listed among the individuals Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi has designated as his next of kin.
In a recent planning meeting, the clan heads were advised to verify the registered next of kin before embarking on their trip to Namibia to meet Kabaka Mutebi. This precaution was necessary to ensure they had the necessary approvals to access the king.
Despite initial skepticism and confidence that Joyce Nabbosa Ssebugwawo, former Buganda Kingdom minister and current junior minister in charge of technology and information, could facilitate their access to Kabaka, the heads decided to confirm the next of kin list.
The meeting, held at Mengo opposite the Bulange building, concluded with the shocking revelation that Queen Mother Nagginda was not among Kabaka’s next of kin.
Instead, Kabaka Mutebi has listed his younger brother Prince David Kintu Wasajja, Buganda Kingdom Premier Charles Peter Mayiga, and his sister Nnaalinya Agnes Nabaloga Lubuga.
A clan head revealed to theGrapevine that during a recent meeting with President Museveni, he assured them of support for their trip to Namibia, where Kabaka Mutebi is reportedly receiving medical treatment. However, Museveni emphasized the need for agreement from Kabaka’s immediate family.
This week, the clan heads plan to meet with clan council speaker and Kkobe clan head, Omutaka Ssalongo Augustine Kizito Mutumba, to discuss the way forward.
They propose leading a delegation to meet Premier Mayiga regarding the matter. Mutumba confirmed to theGrapevine that a council resolution was passed to send a delegation to Namibia to check on Kabaka’s health.
President Museveni has promised to assist in coordinating with Namibian authorities to ensure safe passage for the delegation. However, he reiterated the necessity of securing approval from Kabaka’s immediate family members first.
Some clan heads have already begun processing their travel documents and are eager for the trip. “Even Nagginda or Kabaka’s children must seek approval from the next of kin to see him. But, I doubt Mayiga will allow us to access Kabaka in Namibia,” a clan head expressed.
Tensions between Kabaka Mutebi and Queen Mother Nagginda were highlighted when the royal family and Mengo officials missed her book launch at the Sheraton Hotel in 2022, signaling discord within the palace.
Kabaka Mutebi has faced health issues since 2019, requiring frequent hospital visits both locally and internationally, with Premier Mayiga playing a significant role during these times.
In a related development, Buganda Kingdom’s chief prosecutor and Empeewo clan head, Omutaka Nadduli Kibale Mayiga, has threatened to confront Premier Mayiga over allegations of mishandling gifts meant for Kabaka.
Nadduli, responsible for mediating misunderstandings between Kabaka and his wives, expressed concerns about the fate of gifts sent to Bulange during Kabaka’s absence.
Nadduli’s statement was made during a meeting with Church of Uganda Bishops, led by Archbishop Dr. Stephen Kazimba Mugalu, at his home in Wakiso district.
