Kabaka Finally Breaks Silence: “No One Is Above The Law” —Warns Against Abuse Of Power

By Swift Reporter

The Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, has called for strict adherence to the rule of law, warning that selective enforcement of laws and disregard for established cultural and legal systems threatens justice, stability, and public trust in leadership.

Speaking during a meeting with clan leaders (Bataka) at Bulange, Mengo, the Kabaka stressed that no individual or institution should place itself above the law, noting that accountability remains central to good governance and societal harmony.

“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.

In what observers view as a timely intervention amid rising public debate on governance and civic rights, the Kabaka urged leaders at all levels to act with integrity, fairness, discipline, and respect for institutional procedures.

He expressed concern over what he described as growing tendencies among some actors to bypass established systems, warning that such practices undermine both cultural and state institutions.

The message comes at a time of heightened sensitivity around governance issues and reports of increasing tension between state authorities, political actors, and civil society voices.

Without directly referencing specific cases, the Kabaka’s remarks were widely interpreted as a call for restraint, due process, and respect for legal safeguards in handling disputes and public affairs.

Addressing the Bataka, the Kabaka also emphasized the central role of clans in preserving Buganda’s identity, describing them as the backbone of the kingdom’s cultural and social structure.

“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 urged clan leaders to intensify efforts to educate members about cultural values, protect ancestral land, and strengthen unity across clans as a foundation for social stability and development.

The Kabaka further highlighted ongoing socio-economic challenges affecting communities, including land conflicts, poverty, youth unemployment, and erosion of cultural values. He called for collective and structured approaches 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 provided an opportunity for clan leaders to brief the Kabaka on ongoing cultural and development initiatives within the kingdom.

Speaking on behalf of the Bataka, Namwama Augustine Kizito Mutumba said clan leaders remain committed to unity and the preservation of Buganda’s cultural heritage.

He noted that regular monthly meetings among clan heads have strengthened coordination and helped address challenges affecting clans and communities.

Mutumba also highlighted initiatives such as clan football tournaments and cultural training programmes, which he said have played a key role in promoting identity and unity, particularly among young people.

More than 2,000 participants have reportedly benefited from cultural training programmes resumed after disruptions caused by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Clan leaders have also developed publications documenting clan histories, succession guidelines, burial rites, and family leadership structures, aimed at preserving cultural knowledge for future generations.

However, Mutumba appealed for government support in addressing outstanding financial obligations to the kingdom, saying delays have affected the implementation of some cultural programmes.

He also raised concern over delays in resolving cases within Buganda’s traditional justice structures, warning that prolonged disputes hinder development and weaken community trust.

The engagement marked the first official meeting between the Kabaka and clan leaders since his reported illness in 2024, which saw him receive medical treatment abroad. The gathering brought together more than 30 clan leaders in what was described as a key moment of reflection on the kingdom’s governance, cultural preservation, and development priorities.

The meeting concluded with renewed commitments from both the Kabaka and clan leaders to strengthen unity, uphold cultural values, and promote accountability as a foundation for progress in Buganda.