The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has cautioned politicians and young people against political violence, abuse of social media and disregard for Buganda’s long-standing aspirations, warning that such actions threaten both peaceful politics and the stability of the kingdom.
Speaking during a meeting with National Unity Platform (NUP) leader Robert Kyagulanyi, popularly known as Bobi Wine, Mayiga said engagement with Buganda must be grounded in respect for the kingdom’s core demands, including federalism, land rights, cultural integrity and the economic welfare of its people.
He stressed that Buganda’s aspirations are anchored in five pillars legal, political, social, economic and cultural and are not intended to undermine Uganda’s political system, but to safeguard a 900-year-old institution within a united country.
“A politician who respects our kingdom and our heritage, who respects the wish of the people of Uganda to be governed under the federal system, who respects our land rights and claims, and who is interested in the economic and social wellbeing of our people, is the kind of leader we would like to do business with,” Mayiga said.
The Katikkiro warned that political engagement with Buganda must promote unity and national cohesion, cautioning leaders against rhetoric or actions that fuel division.
Addressing the youth, including those aligned to political parties such as NUP, Mayiga encouraged active participation in politics and contestation for leadership positions, but cautioned that ambition should be guided by discipline, learning and respect for the law.
He warned against the misuse of social media, saying digital platforms should not be used for character assassination, misinformation or incitement to violence.
“The internet neither lies nor forgets,” Mayiga said, urging young leaders to be mindful of their online conduct.
Mayiga further cautioned against political violence, saying it breeds retaliation and can quickly escalate into broader instability.
He called for peaceful political competition and adherence to the law to avoid elections marked by bullets, tear gas or beatings.
His remarks come amid heightened political activity and increasing youth mobilisation ahead of future elections, as Buganda reiterates its call for governance arrangements that recognise federalism, land justice and cultural autonomy within Uganda’s constitutional framework.