The Buganda Kingdom has outlined a broad governance agenda for Uganda’s new political term, urging authorities to prioritise accountability, uphold the rule of law, and improve service delivery.
Addressing the Buganda Lukiiko at Bulange, Mengo, the Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga, said corruption remains one of the biggest obstacles to national development and must be tackled decisively.
“Accountability must be applied fairly. The law should serve all citizens equally if we are to rebuild public trust,” Mayiga said.
Justice and Human Rights Concerns
The Katikkiro raised concerns about respect for human rights, particularly during election periods, urging authorities to adhere strictly to legal procedures.
He called on security agencies to ensure that suspects are either formally charged and presented before courts or released without delay, warning that prolonged detention without trial undermines justice.
Mayiga also strongly criticised alleged abductions, describing them as unlawful and harmful to public confidence in state institutions.
“Uganda already has laws to deal with crime. We should not resort to illegal practices,” he said.
Infrastructure and Service Delivery Gaps
On economic development, Mayiga pointed to persistent infrastructure challenges, including poor road networks in high-traffic and economically productive areas.
“We have roads leading to densely populated areas with significant economic activity, yet they are in poor condition,” he noted. “At the same time, some roads have been built in areas with very small populations and little economic activity.”
He argued that prioritising infrastructure in productive regions would boost trade and accelerate economic growth.
The Katikkiro also highlighted unreliable electricity and water supply as key obstacles affecting both households and businesses.
Urban Order and Livelihoods
Turning to urban management, Mayiga called for more organised cities and towns, cautioning against unregulated street trading that disrupts movement and planning.
“Cities must be properly organised. We cannot have a situation where everyone sets up a stall wherever they please,” he said.
However, he emphasised the need for a balanced approach that protects livelihoods, proposing designated, clean, and regulated spaces for informal traders.
Focus on Youth and Social Development
Mayiga also outlined the kingdom’s Situla Omutindo initiative, which promotes productivity in agriculture, trade, education, and health, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment.
He encouraged communities to adopt modern farming methods to improve output and incomes.
On education, he expressed concern about the quality of early childhood learning, calling for greater investment in foundational systems. He also stressed the importance of preserving cultural heritage through stronger clan institutions and community values.
Kabaka’s Role and Public Confidence
The Katikkiro commended the success of the 2026 Kabaka Birthday Run, which drew widespread participation, and reassured the public about the wellbeing of the Kabaka, describing him as a unifying figure.
Call for Accountability
Mayiga concluded by urging government to ensure that taxes collected from citizens are used transparently and effectively to improve public services.
His remarks reflect growing calls for reforms aimed at strengthening governance, restoring public trust, and ensuring that development efforts benefit the majority of Ugandans.
