National
In a landmark meeting, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni met with His Majesty Omusinga (King) Charles Wesley Mumbere of Rwenzururu Kingdom and his wife, Her Royal Highness Nyabaghole Agnes Ithungu Asimawe. The meeting took place at State House, Entebbe, and saw the two leaders engage in discussions about the future of the kingdom.
President Museveni expressed his pleasure at learning that the Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu had embraced a new chapter aligned with the vision of the National Resistance Movement (NRM). He highlighted the NRM’s three historical missions of prosperity, socio-economic transformation, and strategic security, which he believes the kingdom can now actively contribute to.
The President went on to discuss the government’s decision to restore kingdoms, emphasizing that their purpose is to allow traditional leaders to mobilize and bring about socio-economic transformation, including ensuring universal education and participation in the money economy. However, he stressed that this support is contingent on the kingdoms promoting unity for prosperity and strategic security. Any opposition would be met with resistance.
President Museveni also touched on the importance of culture and heritage, urging traditional leaders to focus on the commonalities that unite different kingdoms rather than their differences. He highlighted the prevalence of Swahili, a Bantu language spoken in East Africa and Congo, as part of the region’s shared heritage.
In terms of practical support, President Museveni assured the Omusinga and his cabinet that the government would commence the construction of the Kingdom palace in Kasese in the upcoming financial year. Additionally, monthly allowances given to the kingdoms would be increased, with the President cautioning against the dangerous practice of politicians taking sides in politics.
During the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister of Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu, Mr. Edwin Kugonza, shared that the Omusinga had launched a new chapter for the kingdom upon his return to Kasese earlier this month. With a focus on peace, reconciliation, and socio-economic transformation, the Omusinga has been actively promoting government programs such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and encouraging the responsible use of financial assistance.
The meeting was attended by various government officials, including the Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, Hon. Godfrey Kabbyanga Baluku, and the Deputy Attorney General, Hon. Jackson Kafuuzi.
Overall, the meeting between President Museveni and Omusinga wa Rwenzururu signaled a new phase of collaboration and shared goals. The President’s assurance of ongoing support and investment in the kingdom’s development bodes well for the future of Rwenzururu and its people.
