Kampala — The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has called on leaders and citizens to uphold the rule of law, saying justice and good governance depend on the fair and consistent application of the law.
Addressing clan leaders (Bataka) at Bulange, Mengo, the Kabaka said no individual or institution should place itself above the law, warning that selective enforcement of laws undermines public confidence and weakens institutions.
“The rule of law is the foundation of justice, accountability and good governance. When laws are ignored or applied selectively, society suffers and public confidence in leadership is weakened,” the Kabaka said.
Without referring to any specific incidents, the Kabaka urged leaders to exercise integrity, fairness and discipline in the discharge of their responsibilities, and to respect established legal and institutional processes.
He also expressed concern over practices that bypass established systems, saying such actions threaten both cultural and state institutions.
The Kabaka’s remarks come amid continued public debate on governance, accountability and the observance of constitutional and legal processes.
Turning to cultural matters, the Kabaka described clan leaders as custodians of Buganda’s heritage and urged them to strengthen efforts to preserve the kingdom’s traditions and values.
“From the beginning, clan heads have been among the strongest pillars in protecting the heritage of our kingdom. Clans are the foundation of Buganda, and their members are the heart of the kingdom,” he said.
He encouraged clan leaders to educate younger generations on cultural values, safeguard ancestral land and promote unity among clans.
The Kabaka also highlighted challenges affecting communities, including land disputes, poverty, youth unemployment and the erosion of cultural values, calling for collective efforts to address them.
“These challenges require collective efforts and responsible leadership. We must work together through dialogue and structured leadership to find lasting solutions,” he said.
The meeting also enabled clan leaders to brief the Kabaka on cultural and development programmes being undertaken across the kingdom.
Speaking on behalf of the Bataka, Augustine Kizito Mutumba said regular meetings among clan leaders had strengthened coordination and promoted initiatives aimed at preserving Buganda’s cultural heritage.
He cited cultural education programmes, documentation of clan histories and youth engagement activities as some of the initiatives undertaken to strengthen identity and unity within the kingdom.
Mr Mutumba, however, appealed for government support in addressing outstanding financial obligations to the kingdom and raised concerns over delays in resolving cases handled through Buganda’s traditional justice structures.
The meeting was the first official engagement between the Kabaka and clan leaders since his return from medical treatment abroad in 2024 and brought together representatives of Buganda’s clans to discuss governance, cultural preservation and community development.