KAMPALA Capital City Authority (KCCA) through the help of government of Uganda has secured USD 288M from the Africa development bank to help improve road transport and ease congestion in the city by upgrading 22 road junctions. According to the acting director engineering and technical services Justus Akankwasa, this will enhance the drainage capacity of the city to mitigate street flooding in low lying areas. Akankwasa said that the project will improve 69.7km of roads in all divisions of Kampala,134 km of non motorised traffick facilities, walk ways, cycling trucks, construct commercial vehicle parking places, bus depots, 30 public toilets,6 Public markets along project roads for women vendors. Meanwhile Akankwasa says Kcca has collaborated with Uganda railway corporation to revitalize the passenger train service between Kampala and Namanve.
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UMSC SG Mugalu and UNBS executive director Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru after signing MoU
BY WASWA TENYWA www.newseditor.co.ug
IN a bid to implement and enforce Halaal standards in Uganda, Uganda National Bureau of standards has today signed a memorandum of understanding with Uganda Muslim Supreme Council (UMSC). During the MOU signing at the headquarters of UNBS today, leaders of the two institutions agreed to work together to support the implementation and enforcement of Halaal standards in Uganda. Speaking during the signing, the UNBS executive director Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru said UNBS will be working closely with the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council to make sure that those who claim that they are implementing Halal standards can be verified to promote trust and confidence in their products so that they can be consumed by the Muslim community and countries as a way of sidelining false claims. Mr. Ebiru revealed that the focus of the MoU is that as UNBS implements the Halal standards, they also protect the Muslim consumers as part of their mandate of consumer protection because Uganda as a country is a member of the Standards & Metrology institute of Islamic Countries called Organization of Islamic Countries whose secretariat is based in Turkey and that as members, there is need to harmonize standards and develop standards together.This means that Uganda should be able to sell our exports to countries that align to the Muslim faith. “We are members of Organization of Islamic Countries whose secretariat is based in Turkey. As a member, we harmonize standards and develop standards together and the focus of the MoU is that as UNBS implements the Halal standards, Muslim consumers are protected as part of our mandate of consumer protection.” Said Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru. Ebiru says uganda’s airlines fly to islamic countries and while in the flight people are served food where most of the travellers in the airlines are Muslims who want food that meets the expectation of the Muslims since muslims are part of the community. Meanwhile the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council secretary General Hon. Ramadhan Mugalu on behalf of UMSC expressed gratitude that Uganda has joined many countries to have Halal in it’s standardization which he says will give more consumer protection not only to the Muslims but also other people who would enjoy halal products. Hon. Mugalu also said the signing of the MOU will expose uganda to the Arab and islamic countries market in terms of exports. “We agree with what UNBS is doing and are very much in support of their endeavors.” Said SG Mugalu Also the secretary for halal at Uganda Muslim Supreme Council sheikh Munil Sebintu said the MOU will give Uganda a chance of selling its products to the outside counctries.He says this will enable people to consume good things which can only be achieved when the two institutions work together. Sheikh munil working together with UNBS will save muslims from consuming things that contradict with the islamic faith.
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2ND BENCH: From left; Mps Kibedi Nsegumire, Francis Zaake, David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga, Joyce Bagala and Ssimbwa attending court in Mubende where judge ordered for a by election
OPINION BY MP FRANCIS ZAAKE
ON FRIDAY morning, His Lordship Hon. Justice Emmanuel Bagumajudge of Mubende High Court nullified Hon. Joyce Bagala Ntwatwa’s election as Woman Member of Parliament representing Mityana District on grounds that there were electoral malpractices in the electoral process that returned her as winner. He ordered for a by election. Specifically, among other things, the Judge stated that I (Hon. Zaake)bribed voters in Mityana to vote for Hon. Bagala. In his Judgment, Hon. Justice Baguma states that, I acted as Hon. Bagala’s agent and bribed a one Nakyagaba Tolophina with UGX 10,000/= to vote for my candidate. I take strong exception to this outrageous conclusion that the Judge reached, without even offering me an opportunity to be heard, even when I attended many Court sessions that the Judge presided over. I wish to set the record straight that I have never given the said Nakyagaba Tolophina any single coin money or with the intention of influencing her or anybody else to vote for Hon. Bagala or any other candidate. In fact, I have never heard of this person! I don’t know her.
BUDDIES: Hon. Zaake and Hon. Bagala
As a flag bearer of NUP, it was my responsibility to campaign for Hon. Bagala and other NUP candidates in my district. That of course did not turn me into her agent! How could I fail to bribe my own voters and I bribe for another candidate? Generally speaking, I think that this judgment sets a bad precedent which should find no space in our Country’s Jurisprudence. It’s good to know that Hon. Bagala intends to appeal against such a judgement which has a lot of errors.
The writer Hon. Francis Zaake is a Commissioner Parliament of Uganda and member of Parliament representing Mityana Municipality. He is the National youth leader in opposition NUP Party
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, the World’s most acclaimed democracy has not once, but twice registered the inevitable and phenomenal scenarios of First Sons becoming Presidents and Commanders in Chief of the strongest army. Presidents John Adams (1797-1801) and his son Quincy Adams (1825-1829). And Presidents George H.W. Bush (1989-1993) and George W. Bush Jnr (2001-2009). In South Korea, one of the famously industrialized Four Asian Tigers, Park Chung-hee ruled from 1961 to 1979 and his daughter Park Guen-hye from 2013 to 2017. Go to India, the world’s most populous democracy. Jawaharlal Nehru (founding father)ruled from 1947 to 1964 and his daughter Indira Gandhi January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 to 1984. In the neighboring Kenya, the reigning President Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta perfectly fitted in the shoes of his Father Mzee Jomo Kenyatta who was president between 1964 to his death in 1968. And the story is the same to other African Countries like Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) of Joseph Kabila who took over after his late dad, president Laurent-Desire Kabila in 2001. Here in Uganda, President Museveni exceptionally transformed the country from a smuggling & rationing economy to a steady exporter and many other milestones registered in three decades. We fully rally behind the strategic leadership of Father of our Nation Gen. Museveni and we shall forever be grateful. Now, First son Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is best suited, not only to democratically replace the father at the opportune moment, but also to consolidate the socioeconomic and political gains since 1986. Our generational leader has quintessentially demonstrated his dedication, skills and undoubted sacrifice in the military, exceptional experience. Patriotism & Pan-Africanism define the charisma of Gen. Muhoozi. He’s a good leader, good listener, trained, tested, tried, honesty, respectful, brilliant and respectful person to mention but a few. Gen. Muhoozi is my First Choice. The day Mzee retires, we shall have one indisputable Leader Champion to overwhelmingly vote for and he’s Master Muhoozi Kainerugaba. For now he’s Proffessionalizing the Ground forces, Army. But we shall be there, it’s just a matter of time.
When Weekly Observer published Muhoozi’s presidency story
For now let’s support Mzee M7 pakalast as he’s still able and strong. Let’s also tap into Government Programs like Emyooga, NAADS and opportunities available in the Armed forces (2000 in the UPDF annually). Form Saccos, tap into OWC for Agric support and inputs, Tourism is also under exploited and ICT is almost a virgin industry. The youth should focus on productive activities to build their own economic potentials and only engage in political debates, that benefit politicians, at their free time. Our leaders in charge of these programs let’s know about them and avail younger people this information and the much needed support. Let us also be tolerant and embrace political pluralism by respecting and accommodating divergent views.
PHOTOS OF THECURRENT PRESIDENT AND NEXT PRESIDENT: Balam in his office
Our Generation Leader Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba,may God bless you . No matter the duration it will take, young and old Ugandans are ready to support you massively in all regions making up Uganda once you accomplish your military services. We are looking forward to supporting you the dear the People’s Favorite General. God bless Uganda & Our President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni.
The Author, Mr. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi is a successful Ugandan businessman, an events guru and proprietor. He is one if the richest individuals in the Ebtwrtainment Industry. Balam is an NRM diehard and very close to the 1st Family of Uganda and No1 Supporter of Gen. Mzee Yoweri Kaguta Museveni & Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba
A FUNCTION organised next month by a group of youth calling themselves ‘Friends of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’ to celebrate achievements of Museveni’s son Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba lies in balance after a tweet by Maj. Chris Magezi saying that the 1st son is neither aware nor authorised it. We are reliably informed, all security teams have been directed to block this function saying it’s motive isn’t known. Maj. Magezi is the Director Information and Communication Office of the Senior Presidential Advisor in charge of Special Operations (SPASO) who is Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba. ‘Friends of Muhoozi’ have organised a luncheon at Sheraton Hotel Kampala to celebrate the Achievements of Gen. Muhoozi. Led by a one Lyvine Julius Kashugi, these ‘Friends of Muhoozi’ have been organising such functions annually and last year, the chief guest Gen. Muhoozi was represented by Chief of Staff, Lt Col McDans Kamugira. In a statement disowning Kashugi and his group yesterday on Monday, Maj. Chris Magezi tweeted, “It has come to the attention of the office of the Commander Land Forces (CLF) & SPASO that some rogue characters are organizing and collecting money from unsuspecting members of Public over some fictitious event at Kampala Sheraton sometime next month.” “Please be advised that, Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba is neither aware about the said event and nor has he authorized any such undertaking in his name. Members of public should not be hoodwinked otherwise.” Reads Maj. Magezi’s tweet.
Maj. Magezi’s tweet
This comes at a time when ownership of Muhoozi project campaign rages on as different groups claim ownership. This campaign is intending to see Museveni’s son become the next President of Uganda after his father.
“FRIENDS OF MUHOOZI”DENIES COLLECTING MONEY FROM PUBLIC In a phone interview with the News Editor Media, ‘Friends of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’ have denied ever soliciting money from members of the Public as alleged by Maj. Magezi challenging him to bring proof. Group chairman Mr. Kashugi has instead referred to this as a blackmail campaign against a good cause citing those with intrigue against Gen. Muhoozi to be having a hand in this. Kashugi asked, “Can afande Magezi table evidence on what he wrote? Can he show any member of public we asked to give us money?” He revealed that ‘Friends of Muhoozi Kainerugaba’ use their money to sponsor this annual function and asked, why Maj. Magezi wants to spoil their names? “Does he want public to believe that this will be the first luncheon we have organised so far? Who is misleading our brother Magezi?” He asked. Kashugi noted that, money to organise the luncheon is contributed by members of the forum (Friends of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba), not from any outsider. “We have never collected money from non members just like Magezi blackmailed us. As members, we contribute this money willingly, we sponsor ourselves. We always have a dinner or luncheon annually. My only work is to invite speakers. Let him table the matter and produce evidence.” Said Kashugi who calls himself, Founder of Muhoozi project in Uganda. He insists, there are some selfish people who want to hijack Muhoozi Project, saying, the same people might be the ones misleading Maj. Magezi hence tainting their names. Asked whether they indeed consulted Gen. Muhoozi whose achievements they want to celebrate, Julius Kashugi said yes and that he is aware. “We have already engaged Col. Kamugira and afande ‘Muhoozi’ is highly briefed. He will grace the function. What’s wrong with celebrating achievements of such a great warrior? We have been doing it for the past years, Maj. Magezi needs to be reminded. We asked Kashugi, how many members do they have and answered that they are very many. “If they keep on provoking us, we will even take the function to Kololo Airstrip and fill it to capacity.” Said Kashugi who held the first dinner at Munyonyo attended by Promoter Balam Ateenyi Barugahara, a renowned Muhoozi blue eyed man. During last year’s luncheon at Sheraton Hotel Kampala, Gen. Muhoozi thanked this group for the love and support they have for him. In his message delivered by Lt. Col. Kamugira, Gen. Muhoozi said, “Thank you for your love and support and for always standing up for me. However, I now encourage you to go out in this electioneering season and mobilize support for mzee and the revolution that saved our country,” At this luncheon under the theme, “Empowering our nation for socio-economic transformation”, the group appreciated Gen Kainerugaba for dedicating his life to serve Uganda having been in the UPDF for over twenty years. According to media reports, in his own capacity, as per the theme of the day, Col Kamugira highlighted three critical areas including ideology, relevant skills, and good leadership as a way of ensuring social-economic transformation. On ideology which he described as the world outlook or what we believe in as a nation, Col Kamugira emphasized NRM’s core beliefs; democracy, Nationalism, Socioeconomic transformation, among others. “Let’s embrace Nationalism and avoid sectarian tendencies if we are to advance. Every one of us matters and the market of our businesses begins with us,” Col Kamugira said.
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Gen. Museveni and son, Lt. Gen. Muhoozi in army combats
NEWS EDITOR MEDIA newseditor.info@gmail.com
PREPARATION of a suitable heir to take over State House after President Museveni, is in high gear! It’s true President Museveni has not announced his exit plan but insiders say, with a succession war on-going in State House especially between camp First Son Muhoozi Kainerugaba and camp Son-in-law Odrek Rwabwogo, God should prevail! Gen. Muhoozi is the commander of Land Forces It looks like each camp is very much determined and no one is willing to let it go. Recently there was a hot debate on a certain MPS’ WhatsApp group about who, between Muhoozi and Rwabwogo should take this coveted seat. Although Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo who is a son-in-law to the President has strongly denied any interest in the Presidency, his supporters are already spreading the gospel, showing how all is set for Patience Museveni’s husband to tussle it out with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba for the top office of the land. Camp Muhoozi says they are ready to carry on the mantle if President Museveni chooses to throw in the towel.
When Rwabwogo married First daughter Patience
In a statement Rwabwogo released a few days ago, he said, those bringing his name into issues of succession are instead promoting themselves at his expense. The two pager statement reads, “They assume that if they throw my name in this melee, it makes their games appear legitimate and credible. This is wrong. Munsaanze nga ndaba, amaaso ngakanude bulungi. You will not use me or anyone I work with in this undisciplined and aimless behaviour.” “The people behind it know there is no election going on now and we only got out of one a few months back. I was not a participant in this election and therefore I am not petitioning for anything. Why would I or anyone project themselves in a non-existent contest now? What outcome would one be aiming at? Who is this with time on their hands for these distractive games at a time when the country is moving forward with the work of healing rifts provoked by the recent elections?” Asks Odrek Rwabwogo. He however admitted that he meets some groups of people and said, “To many young people that I meet in our teaching sessions, I implore you to focus on the greater issues of our country especially the need for finding solutions to build an economy that, like rising waters, lifts all boats to the shore, to seek out what unites us and shun the use of underhand methods as a means of getting into leadership.” “Anyone who has worked with us can easily surmise these are not our work methods. We always seek an honest, deeply engaging and thoughtful debate about what needs to be done. This is because we know that Leadership is not positions and titles. It is hard and thankless work and without a genuine calling, few can sustain the pain of the marathon and the loneliness of hard decision making.” Reads Odrek Rwabwogo’s statement. We shall come back to this later……
CAMP MUHOOZI LAUNCH NEXT WEEK In a leaked letter addressed to all Municipality and Division youth leaders through the National cordinator National Youth Council, they are all invited for a luncheon at Sheraton Hotel. However, according to the organizers who call themselves ‘Friends of Muhoozi’, this function is about celebrating the achievements of Gen. Muhoozi.
Gen. Muhoozi saluting his dad, President Museveni
Political analysts say, if this function happens to take place, it will send signals that the Muhoozi project is real and unstoppable. Letter reads, “We are pleased to invite you at the luncheon to be held on 27th November 2021 at Sheraton Hotel Kampala at 12:30pm. The event has been organised by the Friends of Muhoozi.” Under theme, ‘Celebrating the achievements of Lt. Gen. Muhoozi’, Friends of Muhoozi say, “We are deeply honored and pleased to invite you as youth leaders as we are aware of your expertise and experience. Your graceful presence will be truly a source of inspiration for our members and it will gear up our efforts.”
Letter inviting youth leaders to celebrate Gen. Muhoozi’s achievements
An invitation letter signed by Chairman Lyvine Julius Kashungi and his Vice Arinda Carol says, “We are sure your presence will make the occasion more cherished for me and entire team.” Although Gen. Muhoozi is unclear on his bid whether he is willing to takeover after dad, his close friends are everywhere on social media campaigning. Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, about five days ago posted on his Facebook that, “USA did it with President George W Bush Jr, Kenya has done it with President Uhuru Kenyatta, Chad with Idriss Deby among others. Why not Uganda with Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba?” “My candidates of Choice now Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and soon Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba will come in. Present Candidate of your choice as well. The lines are clear everyone should Stick to his or her lane.” Posted Mr. Balaam. He said, Muhoozi project is the best gift for Uganda because the First son was born into a wealthy family and so he is not into accumulating material things like most African leaders from poor background. Balam says, Gen. Muhoozi gave them green light to start the campaign. “The key attributes that make Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba our No1 choice are; he has more tangible and intrinsic values mentioned above. He commands Respect,Patriotism,Transparency, courage,confidence,Humility, honesty etc. Step by step, process by process we shall make it.” Balaam posted on his Facebook page. WhatsApp groups and other media platforms have been formed to spread the gospel. There is one called, ‘Group to the Chosen one Lt. Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba’ and another one is, ‘GEN. MK FOR PRESIDENT’.
DETAILS OF RWABWOGO’S DOSSIER Dear Friends & Colleagues, I have seen some of my old media interview videos and images mischievously and callously re-edited and distributed in increasing proportions by some elements who I suspect are intent on creating a certain line of political posturing. In the past, I have ignored these but I am now compelled to respond given the probable import and interpretation of these images by some of you, my friends. These interviews and videos have been adulterated and presented as if they were conducted today yet they are more than six years old. The people doing this, I presume are seeking to create the impression that there are some ‘special people’ in the Movement who are jostling for positions in the event of any form of succession and leadership in the party and/or country.
NOT READY? Odrek Rwabwogo
For those who vend this thinking, there are two problems: First, the people behind it know there is no election going on now and we only got out of one a few months back. I was not a participant in this election and therefore I am not petitioning for anything. Why would I or anyone project themselves in a non-existent contest now? What outcome would one be aiming at? Who is this with time on their hands for these distractive games at a time when the country is moving forward with the work of healing rifts provoked by the recent elections? Secondly, this fruitless social media campaign has an underlying intention of driving a wedge among supporters of the Movement as if the organization has neither structures nor system to make decisions about leadership renewal. I suspect this is enemy propaganda meant to cause unnecessary strife and it should be rejected. Anyone who falls for these stunts or is casual about their negative impact, is an adversary of our stability to which many gave their lives. This disinformation endangers the process of building institutions and undermines the very efforts we need to create certainty and predictability for Uganda’s politics. Perhaps the people behind this are unaware that institutions carry the collective hopes of a nation, marshals the strength of each individual to build a greater good and they are the only means of overcoming human limitations imposed by mortality. We should work hard to nurture and strengthen them instead of playing childishly against them. These people who act outside a system cannot be my comrades. They should know that Uganda is neither a monarchy nor is the Movement a tree for charlatan climbers to be abused by any illegitimate interests anyhow. Legitimacy in the Movement and in any organization is a function of merit, capability and contribution. These attributes can only grow from the soil called orderliness and watered by a stream called transparency. To you who I work with or who have seen our efforts in the past and are genuinely confused by this contrived online gimmickry in pictures, I would like to assure you that I continue to work as a volunteer for building national collective values, support efforts to wean our youth from dizzying empty politics so they can concentrate on creating their own enterprises. Even if there might be some of you who admittedly see and appreciate something in our work, no one has come to me to consult on anything you see circulating on social media. I see these images just like many of you do and I have no hand in them. Don’t I have a right of say or to be consulted even if you wanted my opinion on these issues? In the 2015 NRM race, I did not hide behind any social media stunts to state my position. I went to all corners of our country, reaching out to many of our elders and to thousands of young people. We worked in broad daylight. I explained the issues of our time and what we need to do in a growing country with many challenges. We showed a way to fix some of these issues. Why would I now choose to hide behind social media trolls and circulate old campaign artifacts, if I wanted to run for any office? Therefore, anyone who falsely or deliberately positions me in this angling and elbowing for positions, really insults both our intelligence and the work we do. Leadership is a selfless and genuine internal search for purpose, meaning and contribution to an institution. Leadership is a carefully sought out choice about who is capable among many who might often not even see a similar direction but share concerns about an institution at a given time and circumstances. It is a negotiation with nature, multifaceted interests and the future. My favourite organizational management mentor, the late Peter Drucker, said “By themselves, character and integrity [in the search for leadership], do not accomplish much but their absence faults everything else”. Stay principled. I Thank you ODREK RWABWOGO Farmer, Entrepreneur & Senior Presidential Advisor – Special Duties
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SEXY Brenda Kiconco, Secretary for female affairs of the NRM National Youth Council must be the luckiest Mukiga gal on planet earth of recent! Who ever she owes cash, we tip you to urgently look for her, chic must be loaded these days.
Here is Brenda Omukiga
A graduate of Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences and persuing Masters in Gender at Makerere University, Brenda is a born of Nyakahita, Kigongi in Kabale Municipality, Kigezi. This proud Mukiga gal who is so connected to President Museveni and wife maama Janet, News Editor Media spotted her with Mr. Patrice Motsepe, the South African billionaire who a few months back was announced as the new president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF).
Brenda (centre) with President Museveni and wife Janet
When photos of Brenda and Billionaire Motsepe leaked to this News Website, we reached her to tell us how the two linked up but she refused to reveal. Why we call her a lucky Mukiga, Brenda has been close to a number of very high profile people in and out side Uganda. A few years ago, her photos with Tooro King Rukirabasaija Oyo Nyimba Kabamba Iguru Rukidi IV went viral on social media. A few months before that, Brenda was seen with Kyabazinga of Busoga William Kadhumbula Gabula Nadiope IV, very close.
Kenya’s Ruto with sexy Brenda
She has also been seen with Kenya’s Presidential candidate Ruto, former Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Dr. Livingstone Ruhakana Rugunda, Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, FUFA President Hon. Eng. Moses Magogo, Members of Parliament Hon. Francis Butebi Zaake, Hon. Allan Mayanja Sebunya, Hon. Mwiru Mpaka, Hon. David Kabanda, among others. This young gal is indeed powerful.
GOOD GAL: Museveni awards Brenda
NRM gal Brenda (left) with other yellow youth
To give you details about the latest VIP seen with this President Museveni’s gal Brenda, CAF President Motsepe succeeded Malagasy Ahmad Ahmad, who is serving a two-year FIFA ban over “governance issues”. He will require his vast array of business skills to fix the organisation. The 58-year old businessman is the owner and President of the Mamelodi Sundowns club since 2003. He is the brother-in-law of President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa.
Brenda with Eng. Magogo during Kabaka’s birth day run
Brenda at MUK taking a selfie with VC Nawangwe with other campusers
The South African is the founder and executive chairman of African Rainbow Minerals and is non-executive chairman of Harmony Gold, one of the world’s largest gold mining companies. Motsepe has an estimated fortune of $2.1 billion and is the first black African on the Forbes rich list. He is the first South African to lead CAF, following in the footsteps of two Egyptians, a Sudanese, an Ethiopian, a Cameroonian and a Malagasy. Which ever deal the two are chasing after, only God knows.
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PRESIDENTS: Gen. Yoweri Museveni of Uganda and Gen. Paul Kagame of Rwanda
OPINION BY: BRIAN MUKALAZI bmukalazi@ecmafrica.org
THE recent double-headed World Cup qualifier matches played between Uganda and Rwanda saw Uganda trounce Rwanda in both encounters with a one-nil score-line in each. While I watched these two highly competitive soccer matches, my mind could not help, but wander away from the sport and into the currently cold diplomatic relations between the two countries. The matches reminded me of the Katuna/Gatuna border between Uganda and Rwanda that remains closed to human and cargo traffic more than two years since Rwandan President Paul Kagame ordered its closure. This came after Rwanda accused Uganda of supporting political and armed groups said to be hostile to Rwanda, as well as of illegally arresting and torturing its citizens. Today, both countries continue to trade accusations of interference in each other’s affairs. But factually speaking, the strained relations between the two neighbours did not start with the border closure, there had already been glaring signals in the past, all too clear for everyone to see. The historical ties between the two countries’ ruling political movements – the National Resistance Movement/Army (NRM/NRA) and the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) – may easily be considered as the most profound and protracted love-hate affair in Africa’s modern history.
AUTHOR: Mr. Brian Mukalazi
Many senior members of both the NRA and RPF were once schoolmates, brothers in combat, and best friends who share lots of intimate memories together. You will recall that the late Gen. Aronda Nyakairima – Uganda’s former Army commander and Internal Affairs Minister – was the best-man at President Paul Kagame’s wedding in 1989. Therefore, it’s sad to see former allies, brothers, turn into bitter foes. Ironically, the principal factors that brought these two groups of individuals so closely together over four decades ago, are the very factors largely accountable for their present dampened relations – Those factors are: military power and dominance!
Memories from the NRA/NRM Bush war (1981 – 1986) When rebel leader, now Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni formed the National Resistance Army (NRA), which fought a guerrilla war in the bushes of Luweero, against the government of former President Milton Obote, many Rwandans or the Banyarwanda joined and would eventually form a core part of the group. It was here that the charismatic Fred Rwigyema first fought alongside a number of future RPF leaders including future Rwandan president Paul Kagame, James Kabarebe, Patrick Karegeya and Kayumba Nyamwasa. And during the NRA’s first operation, an attack on Kabamba military barracks on February 6, 1981, that involved the legendary twenty-seven guns and thirty-four men, Rwigyema and Kagame were part. Why did many Banyarwanda join the Bush war? Author and journalist Michela Wrong partly attributes this to the events of September 1982 when President Obote’s government ruled that all members of the Banyarwanda community were to be moved to refugee camps. This followed systematic killings, rape and violence.
When Kagame and Museveni met at Gatuna boarder
According to estimates provided by Professor Mahmood Mamdani, by the time the NRA captured state power in 1986, it was 16,000-strong and roughly 4,000 of the soldiers were Banyarwanda. After the war, many Rwandan comrades ended up serving in different positions in the new NRA/NRM government. Rwigyema became the deputy commander-in-chief of the armed forces, second only to the President when it came to military decision-making. Kagame was made director of finance and administration in the new military intelligence department; Dr. Peter Bayingana was appointed director of the Uganda Army’s medical services; Kayumba Nyamwasa became assistant district administrator in Gulu district; while Patrick Karegeya was made an assistant director at Military intelligence.
The RPF War (1990 – 1994) Once the Bush war had been won in Uganda, the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), formerly Rwanda Alliance for National Unity (RANU), would take shape under the leadership of Fred Rwigyema. And on October 1, 1990, the war against the Rwanda government began through the north-eastern part of the country. Whereas the war caught many NRA stalwarts by surprise, it was common knowledge that the positions of the RPF men inside the Ugandan army and police gave them easy access to armouries and barracks. “They took everything that Uganda possessed in terms of military equipment…From RPGs, grenades, SMGs, machine guns, trucks, bullets, boots and uniforms”, writes Michela Wrong. However, on the second day, Rwigyema was mysteriously killed and by the end of October, the RPF was largely defeated by the Rwandan Army. With thousands of soldiers pouring back across the Ugandan border, the RPF was fragile and on a brink of a humiliating loss. It took the return of 33-year-old Kagame, who many believe was hand-picked by President Museveni, from his training course in the United States to take the reigns as the new RPF leader and restore sanity. But without a single doubt, RPF’s survival at the time depended entirely on Uganda’s kindness, manifested through access to hospitals, food and an operational base. In August 1993, the Arusha peace agreement was signed in a ceremony witnessed by Tanzania, Uganda, Burundi and the Democratic Republic of Congo. It catered for the establishment of a broad-based transitional government including the RPF and opposition parties.
Issues of mistrust, disrespect and ego Like with so many fights, it all boils down to respect, or the perceived absence of it. Michela Wrong quotes a retired Ugandan commander as saying: “We used to look at the RPF as young sons, not even brothers”. And according to John Nagenda: “Museveni used this whole ‘My children, my boys’ line when he talked about the RPF”. In retaliation, Kagame has been quoted saying: “Rubbish. We’re not your boys”. When recalling the past, the Ugandans dwell on the way the NRA had welcomed the Banyarwanda into its ranks. And for that, the Ugandans still believe that the Rwandans owe them their victory.
President Kagame (left) and President Museveni in army combats
On their part, what the Banyarwanda remember, instead, was the NRA’s reliance on them to do its dirtiest fighting, Museveni’s failure to win them the right to return, and the sense of having always been unwelcome in alien territory. The problem with history is not that people fail to learn from its lessons, but that they learn the wrong ones. For both the NRM and RPF, their most prized asset is the rich intertwined history they share. If only they could seat – man-to-man – reflect and work out their differences, Uganda and Rwanda would both be winners.
The writer Mr. Mukalazi is the Country Director of Every Child Ministries Uganda. email: bmukalazi@ecmafrica.org
PHOTO: Kabaka climbing up the roof of the main hut ‘Muzibu Azaala Mpanga’ at Kasubi Tombs to place rings, in performing the ritual
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AT 5:00AM on Thursday 30th September 2021, Buganda Kingdom supreme leader His Majesty Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II performed the ritual that starts the final phase of the reconstruction of the Kasubi Royal Tombs which were burnt by unknown people in March 2010. Kabaka Mutebi II is the first ever reigning King of Buganda to climb up the roof of the main hut to place these rings ever since Muteesa I was laid to rest under them. State minister for lands Sam Mayanja who called himself a Muganda, attacked Kabaka for performing this ritual saying Kasubi Tombs is nothing thence condemning its reconstruction. His words were seen as provoking the people of Buganda. Mayanja’s statement has caused him problems, Kabaka’s subjects demand that President Museveni acts. Members of parliament want him censured. For starters, the 2010 torched ‘Muzibu Azaala Mpanga’ is the main hut at Kasubi Tombs under which four past Buganda Kings are buried. These are; Mukaabya Muteesa I, who initially built it as his palace in 1882, was buried there in 1884. He was followed by Kabaka Basamula Ekkere Mwanga when he died in exile in 1903 and buried at Kasubi in 1910, Daudi Chwa II in 1939 and Sir. Edward Muteesa II in 1971 who is Kabaka Mutebi’s father.
WHY THE RITUAL IS PERFORMED BEFORE DAY BREAKS According to Buganda customs, the rituals are performed very early in the morning before day breaks. In fact, these secret rituals are not supposed to see the light of day or to be witnessed by the public due to their sacrosanctity as the Tombs are also a place of Ganda spirituality.
KABAKA @ KASUBI TOMBS On arrival, the 36th King climbed up to the interior on a ladder, reaching the centre of Muzibu Azaala Mpanga ceiling to install three round woven rings in the support structure of the roof. Kabaka performed the ritual aided by his nephew, Prince Daudi Chwa, who carried the rings on his head as per the rites. We are reliably informed, Kabaka did this as the royal drum Bantadde sounded. In Buganda tradition, this drum announces the visit of members of the royal family to the royal tombs. This rhythm is the motto of the royal family: “Bantadde, Bantadde ggwe Ngo ggwe Musota……” A pole known as Sserugattika was also fixed in the Tombs under the supervision of the Kabaka.
Kabaka, shortly after performing rituals at Kasubi Tombs
The ritual performed by His Majesty Kabaka Mutebi was last performed in 1882 when Kabaka Muteesa I personally put up three rings in the ceiling of his Kasubi Nnabulagala palace as it was being constructed. These rings supporting the roof are part of the 52 rings in this Tomb that symbolize the 52 clans of Buganda. Reconstruction of this World heritage site, is expected to be completed by the end of 2023.
MINISTER MAYANJA’S OUTRAGEOUS ATTACKS AGAINST KABAKA Eight days later, State minister for Lands Sam Mayanja used a function of reopening lands office at Wakiso he had illegally closed to utter statements against Buganda’s King and the Kingdom at large, about the reconstruction of Kasubi Tombs and the rituals performed by Kabaka.
Minister Mayanja at Wakiso while attacking Mengo Government
This news Website reproduces unedited Minister Mayanja words; “Kasubi Tombs, technically speaking is nothing that but a burial ground of four of the departed individuals. Call them Kings, call them emperors, call them anything. They are sheltered in a grash grass-thatched structure. And you have the audacity to show us, the Mengo group going into that thatched structure at night. And If you want to go at night, go at night, but why again do you take photographs? Not to show us pictures of people performing rites in the night, in the darkness of the night. One Hundred and fifty years since Christianity came here, you can still do those, perform those heathen rites in the dark and even take photographs. I condemn it and as a Muganda i think it put us very very far down.”
MPS, PUBLIC WANT MAYANJA SACKED, TAKEN TO HOSPITAL Members of Paliament led by Mukono Municipality legislator Betty Nambooze Bakireke and Lubaga South MP Aloysius Mukasa demand that President Museveni sacks his minister whose words are provocative and may lead to an uprising in Buganda Kingdom.
Katikkiro Mayiga, Owek. Kyewalabye Male with a committee responsible for Kasubi Tombs reconstruction. In the background is the main hut, Muzibu Azaala Mpanga
Nambooze has already launched consultative meetings with fellow MPs to censure Mayanja and insiders say, Buganda caucus has welcomed the move. “We can’t just look on when some people who also claim to be Baganda are violating our Kingdom. Sam Mayanja, you have started a war which you must finish. We are ready to fight for our Buganda Kingdom.” Nambooze posted on her Facebook page.
Buganda Kingdom’s Premier Charles Peter Mayiga at Kasubi Tombs a week before Kabaka performed rituals
Mawokota South legislator Counsel Yusuf Nsibambi, refering to Mayanja’s shared video, on 8th October 2021 posted on Buganda Think Tank, a WhatsApp group that, “I think my learned friend (Sam Mayanja) should consult a psychiatrist.” Hon. Aloysius Mukasa blamed President Museveni for appointing Mayanja a minister well knowing that he has been having a grudge against Buganda Kingdom for years. “He is a biased man against our Kabaka and Buganda Kingdom. We used to see his articles in newspapers intending to provoke Kabaka’s subjects. Let Mr. Museveni call to order his minister.” Said MP Aloysius Mukasa. Also click this and read related story TROUBLED MINISTER SAM MAYANJA IN HOT SOUP, LANDS MINISTRY DIRECTS WORKERS AT LANDS OFFICE HE ILLEGALLY SACKED BACK ON DUTY Mayanja is already in running battles with his bosses at the Lands ministry. Permanent Secretary Ms. Dorcus Okalany has already reversed Mayanja’s orders to suspend workers and Wakiso lands offices and she directed all of them to return back to duty.
READ HOW ANGRY PUBLIC RESPONDED TO MAYANJA’S UTTERANCES On 8th October 2021 a day to celebrations of Uganda’s Independence Kakensa Media shared on his facebook page, Minister Sam Mayanja’s video when he insulted Kabaka and Buganda Kingdom over the reconstruction of Kasubi Royal Tombs. Here are some of the transcribed responses to Kakensa Media’s popular post and on other media forums; Ebetta Rs: This guy looks to be disguising as a Muganda. A true Muganda can’t go against his Kingdom ritual, Tradition is what defines us all. Mayanja Duncan: I am disgusted to see someone who calls himself ‘Mayanja’ speaking like a mad man or a drunkard!!! Dude is so bitter that he can’t even pronounce some words. Where do they get such people? Do they have families because I believe they would atleast talk to him about the words he uses towards Kabaka and Buganda. Mayanja is making bad history, his story will be told just like other stories that targeted Buganda are told. Sebastian Bakka: I am still shocked he used to work with KAA, a reputable law firm. He might have been among the poorly performing students at the law school. Just listen to his kindergarten thinking. Kakube Francis: Why do people like Mayanja undermine culture yet it existed even before Christianity? Kats Delique: When you go deep into foreign religion you realize how foolish we were to actually abandon our culture. It was only brought to tame us and now here we are.. very hopeless. Joel Muwayi: A Moslem can never lead prayers in a church just like a Priest can’t lead prayers in a mosque. So is he who is not from the Kingship of Buganda, you can never know why things are done that way. What surprised me is that my phone can’t spell the word Buganda beginning with a small letter even in the middle of the sentence. If my phone can respect Buganda how much more then is this person supposed to respect Buganda Kingdom? Dax Kigozi: Even Jesus was crucified by his own people but he is still feared and praised. No one can erase Buganda’s history. Obote tried but show me where he is? Every generation has it’s own prodigal sons, today it’s Mayanja. Lizzy Lauryns: Although I am not a Muganda, I don’t see anything wrong with people believing in African culture because that’s us and nothing will change. Anyway if he’s the State minister for lands, then he has nothing to do with ethics and culture, let him mind his business. Remigious Tebajjwa: Formal education seems not to be any guarantee for good moral conduct. That is why professional organisations, institutes and companies have increasingly issued codes of conduct/ethical guidelines to provide assistance to their members in resolving moral dilemmas. We are continually seeing such educated so called elites uttering nosense in public…Sometimes you wonder how they got these jobs without being screened first. Mbu doctor… This is why we are moving backwards because of people like him holding public offices. Luyambi Geofrey: And (President) Museveni gave him authority to do what he is doing. May be he doesn’t know history but we shall teach him what Buganda is to us. Eddie Batista Sevume: He is failing to do works under his jurisdiction…. let him stay in his lane. Busulwa Dennis Samson: Paid to demean Buganda establishment. But so sorry to him, Buganda is a strong institution that can’t be shaken by ill thinking individuals like himself. You might even be surprised that he’s not a Muganda like he claims to be. Despite his loose utterances, the institution won’t be diverted off its administrative rights. Buyondo Ogah: Mbu in a dark….but some of Museveni’s ministers! Even a P2 drop out can speak English fluently than this minister! Prince Henry Jjemba Mayanja: Shame on you Mayanja. You have undressed yourself. You can’t insult Buganda and move away with it. Ask Alintuma Nsambu. Mayanja you won’t be forgotten and forgiven. Even president Museveni respects cultural norms, who are you? Waiting for your downfall. Kakube Francis: So sad indeed! Imagine he’s talking about Christianity of 150 years yet our culture existed before Christianity came. Sometimes I wonder whether we as Africans still have anything that we take as gold that will make us proud to show the grand kids. It would be our culture but see how the Mayanjas are fighting it! Ssaka Mark: But all along you know some people are cheap and paid to weaken Mengo but in vain! Who on earth can destroy culture? Even the whites have their culture. And you look at this minister totally arrogant about Buganda. Sherinah Awori: I am not a Muganda but surely countless times we paid for trips in school to visit these amazing royal Tombs. Sometimes I feel certain people lost it all, they are not living in Uganda. Jon Junior: On behalf of Baganda, i have sold Dr. Mayanja and his family to the Western region. Installments are allowed, price negotiable. Siliva Nyemere: You bloody hell minister don’t dare try to undermine people’s cultures. If you are born again, stay in your lane. Karimojongs walk naked because that’s their culture and it’s ok its so long as they have not interfeared with someone’s belief. Go and ask Esther Mbayo why she was dumped after attacking Catholic Church. Mayanja stop your excitement. Medi Mutoto: Mbu in a dark at night! Hahahaha! this Minister’s English, though. Is there a light night? Just asking. Stanley Sebwalunyo: We need to ignore Mayanja. Just dancing on some one’s tunes. Speaking rubbish on Buganda’s independence day. David Mukasa: I can’t believe that his real name is Mayanja! Totally a disgrace! No situation is permanent, all these barbarians will be gone soon. Monique Zimzim: Let him go back to his UPE school and master English language. Surely there’s a difference between grass and grash! Out of excitement that sheltered in grash! Hafswa Mikal: His accent is enough to tell where he comes from. We have them holding our kiganda names, some were named at birth yet they ain’t Baganda some are getting them now to work for the Junta disguising as a Muganda. The kind of hatred he displays towards Baganda like seriously no Muganda can do such. The way he loves to put an emphasis on “as Muganda” says a lot but whatsoever, nothing will work. Muweesi Hannington: This is an unfortunate statement. For those of you and the Police who have been asking Who burnt Tombs, i think the responsible people are now bringing themselves out. I also warn and advise our beloved leaders in Mengo to take note of that statement from that enemy. In other words extra security should be accorded to this UNESCO heritage site, other wise the enemy is ranting and ready to destroy it again. Kerena Lola: Buganda has been known to have enemies in and out. These enemies have always united to fight Buganda but in vain. British had gathered to fight off Luganda. They introduced Swahili and English over Luganda but lost it! Clever Mulowoza: Hatred destroys a human soul. It is worse when you are a public figure. Any time you reach that level of hatred, better ask God to take you. Buganda is a rock, many including the British tried to fight it but has always survived. Obote thought that by exiling Ssekabaka Edward Muteesa II, he had abolished Buganda Kingdom. We fought and restored it. So leave Mayanja alone, he will be ok. Kats Derique: He is even not eloquent in his speech, one might think he has High blood pressure the way he talks..nothing sensible has come out of his mouth in that clip. I mean for a Muganda man that’s if he is to say such…and to give praise to the white culture is nothing but a shame on him and his lineage. For those who have travelled, you can see how whites and Asians put value in their cultures. Joel Muwayi: A Moslem can never lead prayers in church just like a Priest can’t lead prayers in a Mosque. Mayanja is not from Kingship of Buganda. He will never know why things are done that way. Mukuye Herman: I am even lacking words to describe this man. Buganda is my identity and am proud to be one. What offends most of us, that individual is bragging to be called Mayanja, an affliation to a Mutima clan to which I belong. I really feel disgusted. Long live my Kabaka. Nelson Mpagi: He would be right if he was saying that in a Christian church and preaching to the converted since his bashing is premised on Christianity which brands such practices paganic. But what he forgets, Uganda is not a Christian country. He proudly goes around with the title doctor for which I am not sure if he is a medical doctor. If he is just a learned doctor, then those were unfortunate remarks and inappropriate for a government minister who is supposed to serve both Christians and non Christians. These words will certainly come to haunt him many years from now. Nnakanjakko Hellen: Who tells you Mayanja is a Muganda? Bryan Mg: Kabaka once warned us to be careful about those who pretend to be Baganda yet they are on a mission of abolishing Kingdom territories. Mayanja is one of them. Bolt Gyaagenda Alexander Chard: This man has crossed lanes. Buganda government has to do something, it’s too much Yusuf Gitta: His ending will be worse, trust me he can not win this battle against the mighty Buganda Kingdom Kirabo Kharel TT: Then I wonder how we can even celebrate independence when most of us are still under slavery Asiimwe Edith: This Mayanja has a problem. This man’s family should take him to Butabika before it is too late. He has totally lost it. Semambo Edith: I would love to see his children Amos Chalie: I can’t sketch him out, what exactly is he trying to say. Sarah Damulira: He is just trying to say NONSENSE, that’s it. Nsubuga Davis: But again who forced him to speak English? Kisitu Kimuli: I was trying to figure out what language he was speaking but couldn’t understand it. Edward Mayega: He doesn’t sound like a lawyer. He sounds like a drunkard illiterate man. Sebastian Bakka: This guy is wazzock! He is greedy and might be having psychiatric issues. He doesn’t even sound like a lawyer from KAA. He sounds like a matooke seller in Kalerwe…He is so ignorant my God! Christianity as you said, came and found us here. Do you think before the missionaries came there were no people that stayed here without practicing it? You sound like those that claim John Speke discovered River Nile as if we had no people here before he came to claim it. What you saw, was done in the wee hours of the morning just before sunset and not in the night like your parochial mind tells you. It has been always done like that just like you claim being a Muganda. Before your wedding day in your Christian Church, in the morning, the Baganda perform ‘Kaasuze Katya function’s in the wee hours of the morning before sunset. The groom’s family visits the bride’s family and carry along s few items then leave and go back to prepare for Church or Mosque or any other way they choose to wed. The Kasuze Katya simply signifies that the bride is ready and slept well through the night. Mayanja must be ignorant about this. Hasifah Nalule: And who told you, Christianity is a must? Musisi Frank HP: Time heals. We shall see who will last longer, either him or the Kingdom. Sarah Muganda: No Muganda can talk like this. Najjemba Juliana: He will get heart attack while fighting Buganda. Look at the way he is breathing. Ayebazibwe Clarence Kateeba: Completely defeating his purpose of sitting infront of some blackboards. Aisha Namirembe: English, leave so called Mayanja alone. Mayanja leave our culture and mind your business. If you hate Kiganda culture, go and hang in peace. Appelez-moi Kizza: Now I believe that, serving “Some people” in this country is a curse Richard Kisolo: And imagine he uses our name Mawanda Fahard: Someone will one day regret this cheap popularity. Asirise teyejjusa. Lutaaya Alex: Get you facts right…it was 5:00am sir. Moses Jingo: Even if it was 2:00am, was he invited? John Wamala: The guy is so bitter bannange. There is something more and deeper to this reaction. Eric Exquisite Selecta: This kind of idiocy, sometimes makes me think our generation is charmed. Some things don’t add up. Kay DeBans: This one is full of hatred! He calls them heathen…God help this African Man’s head. Che: At first I gave this man a benefit of doubt, but I have come to conclusion that he is sick.Wish he was a Muganda like he claims, would have respect for the throne. Charles Marie: Ku lumbe tekubula musiwuufu. It is our saying. Honeyfah: But the minister is out of order. He ought to respect people’s culture even when he disagrees with it. He has to apologise to Buganda and the country at large. Uganda has many tribes with all sorts of culture. But you don’t come out like that to criticize them. Such people suffer from arrivalism. Victor Kiweewa: Refer Mayanja to the likes of Alintuma Nsambu to take him through what befalls those who insults Kabaka and Buganda Kingdom. He is totally nothing.
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EMBATTLED junior minister Sam Mayanja’s woes are not about to end! In fact, Mawokota South legislator Counsel Yusuf Nsibambi has without mincing words said “I think my learned friend should consult a psychiatrist.” A few days after Kabaka’s subjects roasted Mayanja alive for his attacks on the reconstruction of the Kasubi Royal Tombs International heritage site, his superiors at the Lands ministry have reversed his decision to suspend over 30 workers at Wakiso Lands office saying he has no powers. The lands ministry has warned Sam Mayanja to stop his excitement saying, he might land the ministry into useless legal battles which will cost tax payers billions of shillings. This news website has been reliably informed that, Lands ministry has directed, with immediate effects, all workers, Mayanja suspended illegally to report back for their respective duties. Those who were brought by Mayanja to replace the ones he sacked, have been ordered to vacate or face arrests because they are masqueraders. Junior minister Mayanja accused workers he sacked of demanding for bribes to transfer land titles and other transactions. He replaced them with new people. All started when Mayanja closed Wakiso lands offices to pave way for investigations and reopened them a week after, with new staff. The Lands ministry has strongly condemned Mayanja’s illegality saying, this junior minister has no powers to sack public servants fearing that if they sue, government will definitely lose billions in costs. There was also worries that titles might easily get lost during this confusion asking whether the minister is aware of the repercussions. According to a letter written by Ministry of Lands Permanent Secretary Ms. Dorcas W. Okalany who is the Accounting Officer and Chief Executive Officer of the Lands Ministry, all workers Mayanja had sacred are ordered to report to their work stations at the Wakiso Lands office. “The minister has no powers to sack public servants. All he did was illegal. You are all ordered to immediately return to your work at Wakiso Lands office.” Ps. Okalany’s letter intepreted. Top bosses in the ministry have also directed the minister to first consult if he doesn’t know his functions. He must be helped to know his limits so that he doesn’t land the Lands ministry into trouble. PS. Okalany said, if any lands office staff is to be sacked or reshuffled, that is not the work of Mr. Sam Mayanja. First of all, there are procedures to be followed to enable those who have been in the affected office write reports about what they have been working on before they are replaced. The lands ministry said, it was wrong for Mr. Mayanja to return workers who were legally sacked due to their involvement in fraud and this make the public question this minister’s hidden motive. Sources say, since he was elected lands Junior minister, Mayanja has been conducting uncoordinated activities without consent from his superior minister, Hon. Judith Nalule Nabakooba. Mayanja is seen to be using his docket to fight personal wars especially against Buganda Kingdom yet it has never been the official position of the Lands ministry in general. Ps. Okalany had to put a speed governor into Mayanja’s activities or else, he would most likely to crush the ministry.
WHY PUBLIC ROASTED MAYANJA ON HIS KASUBI TOMB’S UTTERANCES While reopening Wakiso Lands offices which he had closed, Mr. Mayanja took about three minutes insulting Buganda Kingdom and Kabaka’s loyal subjects who are reconstructing Kasubi Tombs which were torched by unknown people, about 11 years ago. Mayanja said, “Kasubi Tombs, technically speaking is nothing but a burial ground of four departed individuals. Call them Kings, call them emperors, call them anything. They are sheltered in a grass-thatched structure.” “And you have the audacity to show us, the Mengo group that thatched the structure at night. If you want to go at night, go at night, But why again do you take photographs? Was it meant to show us pictures of people performing rites in the night, in the darkness of the night.” Said Mayanja whose roots are believed to be in Buruuli, Nakasongola. According to a recorded video which trended on social media, Mayanja who totally looks to be ignorant about the Ganda culture and norms said, “One Hundred and fifty years since Christianity came here, you can still perform those rites in the dark and even take photographs. I condemn it and I think this puts Buganda down.” Public who interpreted Mayanja’s words as attacks on Buganda Kingdom’s supreme leader Kabaka Mutebi’s recent visit to Kasubi Royal Tombs to perform cultural rites, said this minister has a problem and he needs urgent help. Mawokota South legislator Counsel Yusuf Nsibambi, refering to this shared video, on 8th October 2021 posted on Buganda Think Tank, a WhatsApp group that, “I think my learned friend should consult a psychiatrist.” This week, there was a two-day orientation of all ministers especially for those who are new like Mayanja to be trained on what they are supposed and not supposed to do. President Museveni closed this retreat at Kololo Independence ground. In our next edition, this news website is going to transcribe what over 200 people posted against Minister Mayanja’s outrageous comments on Kasubi Royal Tombs reconstruction.
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