Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has called on Uganda’s leaders to engage in open and honest dialogue about the growing dissatisfaction among citizens over leadership and the unequal distribution of the nation’s wealth.
His message was delivered by Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga accompanied by Prince Wassajja during the centenary celebrations of St. Mary’s Cathedral Lubaga, marking 100 years since its establishment.
The event, attended by religious leaders, government officials, and faithful from across the country, celebrated the Catholic Church’s century-long role in promoting faith, peace, and unity.
“The time has come for all of us to unite our voices and call upon our leaders and all Ugandans to engage in honest dialogue about the dissatisfaction that exists in leadership and in the unequal distribution of our nation’s wealth,” Kabaka said.
He stressed that such dialogue should be grounded in a spirit of unity and guided by constitutional review to promote fairness and equal opportunities for all Ugandans.
“This should be done through reviewing the Constitution and other laws that govern our country. We have already begun this process and we ask everyone to join us in raising a united voice on this important matter,” he added.
Kabaka also congratulated the Archbishop of Kampala, Paul Ssemogerere, the clergy, and all Christians upon reaching the 100-year milestone, commending the Church for its role in nurturing moral values and social transformation.
“We congratulate the Archbishop, the clergy, and all Christians upon reaching 100 years since the Church at Lubaga began its mission of teaching our people faith, peace, and unity,” he said.
Reflecting on the historic bond between the Buganda Kingdom and the Catholic Church, Kabaka Mutebi traced the relationship back to the reign of Muteesa I, emphasizing the importance of preserving it for future generations.
“Since the time of Ssekabaka Muteesa I, the Church and the Kingdom of Buganda have coexisted peacefully working together and consulting one another for the wellbeing of our people,” his message read.
“This cooperation has borne many fruits, including leaders who have served the Kingdom and our country with devotion. We wish to continue preserving this relationship.”
The Kabaka lauded the Church’s contribution to Uganda’s development, particularly through its establishment of schools, hospitals, and social institutions that have transformed communities across the nation.
He also commended the Church for its moral courage in speaking out against injustices.
“Over the years, we have heard the Church courageously speak out against situations that oppress people such as discrimination based on religion, ethnicity, or political opinion. This courage to speak the truth, to defend human rights, to promote unity, and to uphold human dignity is commendable,” he stated.
He urged Church leaders to continue guiding the youth and the wider public against manipulation by selfish politicians who could endanger the country’s stability.
Kabaka congratulated the Catholic Church and all faithful upon the centenary and expressed gratitude to those who supported the restoration of Lubaga Cathedral, describing it as a symbol of faith, culture, and resilience.
“We pray that the relationship between the Church and the Kingdom of Buganda continues to grow stronger,” he said.
