The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga has called on the central government to urgently address the compensation and payment of outstanding funds owed to the kingdom.
Mayiga made this appeal on Monday during a Lukiiko meeting where he provided updates on current affairs within the kingdom.
It is reported that the government owes Buganda over Shs700 billion, primarily in rent arrears for buildings and land occupied by government entities.
Buganda also owes the Ugandan government for properties that historically belonged to the kingdom, including prisons and other assets that were seized by the government over the years.
Despite repeated appeals for compensation for the occupied properties and payment of outstanding rent arrears owed to Buganda, there has been little progress.
During Monday's Lukiiko meeting, Mayiga reiterated the need for the government to settle the substantial arrears owed to the Buganda Kingdom.
"We owe the government a huge amount of money. We urge the government to pay us this money so that we can effectively manage our kingdom's affairs," Mayiga stated.
For years, the government has appeared to not have prioritised addressing the issue of unpaid arrears and compensation to Buganda, raising concerns within the kingdom.
In the latest financial year (2025/2026), no funds were allocated to the kingdom.
Mayiga emphasised on Monday that it is time for the government to prioritise the long-standing issue of unpaid arrears and compensation for all properties belonging to the kingdom.
"I urge the government to make this issue a priority and repay the money owed to the kingdom," he said.
In his Easter message, the Kabaka of Buganda, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi, echoed similar sentiments, urging the central government to resolve the longstanding issue of unpaid funds owed to the Buganda Kingdom.
Last month, Kingdom Prince Wasajja also expressed his concerns, noting that despite numerous appeals for compensation and the return of the kingdom's assets, the government had remained silent.
“It is time for the government to act and honour its obligations to the Kingdom. This is not just about property; it’s about respecting history, identity, and the rightful place of Buganda within our nation,” Prince Wasajja stated Easter celebrations held at Lubaga Cathedral on Sunday.
The financial compensation also relates to properties such as Mutesa House in London, which was taken over by the Idi Amin regime and subsequently sold. Another notable property in question is Plot 52 on Kampala Road.