Uganda Today: Kibuli Celebrates Kabaka’s 32nd Coronation Anniversary with Pomp and Fanfare
By Uganda Today Reporter | 31 July 2025
KAMPALA, UGANDA– The hill of Kibuli turned into a vibrant sea of colour, culture, and spiritual solemnity on Wednesday as thousands gathered to mark the 32nd Coronation Anniversary (Amatikkira Ga Kabaka) of His Majesty Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II, the reigning monarch of Buganda. The multi-denominational celebrations, attended by prominent political, cultural, and religious leaders, served as a powerful reminder of the Kabaka’s enduring influence across Uganda’s social and political spectrum.
A Message of Resilience and Reproof from the Throne
In a live telecast address aired during the climax of the event, Kabaka Mutebi issued a stern rebuke against what he described as the misuse of legislative power by those in authority to weaken Buganda Kingdom and erode its traditional institutions.
“We must speak out against those who use the law not to protect, but to undermine our cultural heritage and institutions. Buganda will not be silenced by legislation cloaked in political convenience,” the Kabaka emphasized. He encouraged his people to work hard instead of waiting for peanut handouts that can’t solve their economic needs.
Urging his subjects to embrace self-reliance and economic productivity, the Kabaka warned against dependency on political handouts and foreign agendas, stating:
“Let us not run after those who give with one hand and take away with the other. Use your hands to work, not to beg.”
His remarks struck a deep chord with many in attendance, seen by observers as a direct yet tactful critique of the central government’s perceived attempts to suppress cultural autonomy.
Prince Nakibinge: Free Political Prisoners
Muslim Patriarch Prince Kassim Nakibinge Mbuga, hosting the ceremony on the historic grounds of Kibuli Hill, used his platform to call on the Ugandan government to “release political prisoners”, a statement that drew resounding applause. He called on people to fully participate in the forthcoming elections in peace and harmony.
In an unexpected yet symbolic move, Prince Nakibinge invited Hon. Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, the leader of the National Unity Platform (NUP), to introduce fellow political figures present. This gesture was widely interpreted as a gesture of solidarity with Uganda’s opposition forces and political detainees.
“Our politics should be driven by principle, not survivalism,” Nakibinge stated. “Leaders who speak two tongues betray those who believe in them.”
Interfaith Unity on Display
The event was deeply spiritual, characterized by interfaith prayers and blessings from top clerics:
Bishop Mzee of the **Orthodox Church called for peace and justice,
Archbishop Augustine Kasujja, the retired Papal Nuncio, represented the Catholic Church,
Bishop Moses Banja of Namirembe Diocese delivered a goodwill message from the Anglican Church,
Supreme Muft Sheik Galabuzi led the day’s islamic prayers. Islamic scholars and other religious leaders prayed for the Kabaka’s health and strength.
Their collective presence and harmonious messages underscored Buganda’s tradition of **religious pluralism and cultural inclusivity.
Katikkiro Pays Tribute to Kabaka’s Legacy
Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda, in his address, praised Kabaka Mutebi for a reign marked by visionary initiatives such as the Kabaka’s Birthday Run (fighting HIV/AIDS and prostate cancer), Buganda’s land registration reforms, and **youth and women economic empowerment programs.
“For 32 years, Your Majesty has walked with your people – not ahead of them, not behind them, but beside them. That is the true spirit of a King,” Mayiga said.
He reiterated the Kingdom’s commitment to promoting health, education, and socioeconomic development in line with the Kabaka’s vision of a prosperous Buganda.
A Cultural and Political Statement
Though marked by dance, poetry, and music from Buganda’s rich cultural heritage, this year’s coronation anniversary also carried profound political undertones. The pointed references to political prisoners, betrayal among leaders, and the protection of cultural institutions echoed a larger public discontent over recent attempts to dilute Buganda’s influence in national affairs.
Attendees noted the absence of high-ranking central government officials, a trend that has increasingly characterized events where the Kingdom has openly criticized state policies. Nonetheless, the crowd remained spirited, waving royal flags and wearing traditional attire (kanzus and gomesis), chanting praise songs for the Kabaka.
National Attention and Media Spotlight
The event was widely covered on both traditional and digital media platforms, with hashtags like #Kabaka32Years, #BugandaKweyagaliza,#ReleasePoliticalPrisoners, and #KibuliSpeaks trending on social media. Political analysts, civil society voices, and citizens at home and abroad took to X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook to reflect on the Kabaka’s speech and Prince Nakibinge’s bold call for justice.
Conclusion
As the Kingdom of Buganda and Uganda at large reflected on 32 years of Kabaka Mutebi’s reign, the celebrations at Kibuli weren’t just ceremonial. They were a resounding cultural affirmation and a clarion call for political accountability, unity, and dignity.
The Kabaka, as both a cultural figurehead and silent political symbol, once again reminded his people that the struggle for identity, justice, and development continues—not through conflict, but through consciousness, hard work and commitment.
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