Newly elected Members of Parliament from Buganda Caucus have been briefed on their responsibilities in serving the Kingdom and promoting unity and development across the region.
The meeting, held at Hotel Africana, brought together MPs representing different constituencies in Buganda regardless of political party affiliation or religion.
Minister for Local Government, the Kabaka’s Tours and External Affairs, Joseph Kawuki, urged the legislators to understand and embrace the working culture of Buganda.
“Buganda follows a chain of listening, reflecting and then speaking. That is why the Kingdom does not rush to comment on every issue before fully understanding it,” Kawuki said.
Kawuki encouraged the MPs to actively participate in Kingdom programmes such as royal tribute activities, coronation anniversaries, the Kabaka’s birthday celebrations and birthday runs, as well as development initiatives and keeping close attention to affairs at Mengo.
He also called for unity among the legislators in order to lobby effectively for meaningful development in Buganda, including better roads, improved health services and quality education.
“They should rise above partisan politics and return to the common basket of Buganda so they can work together,” he added.
As the country prepares for the 12th Parliament, Kawuki asked the MPs to raise the standard of parliamentary leadership by carrying out their duties diligently and focusing on the Kingdom’s five core strategic priorities aimed at restoring Buganda’s prominence.
Deputy Chairperson of the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, Dr. Lulume Bayiga, highlighted some of the caucus achievements and challenges during their previous term.
According to Bayiga, the caucus successfully intervened in areas affected by illegal land evictions and helped halt plans by land grabbers. They also visited forest reserve land under the National Forestry Authority and helped stop illegal forest destruction.
The caucus also participated in the Kabaka’s birthday run, joined county chiefs in delivering royal tribute, and supported several Kingdom programmes.
However, Bayiga noted that the caucus faced several challenges, including excessive political interference, internal divisions, lack of respect among members, resistance to guidance from leaders, selfish interests overriding collective goals, and reluctance by some MPs to contribute resources for joint activities.
“Personal interests have continued to undermine collective objectives,” Bayiga said.
The Buganda Parliamentary Caucus has also supported the Kingdom through various initiatives, including donating a vehicle for the clan heads, funding Kingdom programmes, supporting the “Mwanyi Terimba” coffee campaign and participating in royal functions.
