Buganda Kingdom has commemorated 59 years since the fateful attack on the Mengo Palace in 1966, a historic event that plunged Uganda into political crisis and forced the Kabaka, Edward Muteesa II, into exile.
The commemoration, held under the theme of reflection, repentance, and unity, took place during a special prayer service at the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Najjanankumbi.
The service, presided over by Bishop David Ssimogerere of the North Buganda Field of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, brought together dignitaries, clergy, and representatives of the Buganda Kingdom.
The event served as both a remembrance of the painful past and a call for national healing and unity.
On May 24, 1966, the Uganda Army, under the command of then-Prime Minister Milton Obote, launched a military assault on the Kabaka’s palace at Mengo.
The attack marked the beginning of the abolition of the Buganda Kingdom, which remained dormant until its eventual restoration in 1993. Kabaka Edward Muteesa II narrowly escaped with his life and later fled into exile in the United Kingdom, where he died in 1969.
Speaking during the service, Bishop Ssimogerere recounted the events of 1966, urging Ugandans to reflect deeply on that dark chapter in the nation’s history.
He emphasized the importance of national repentance, unity, and prayer, especially in light of Uganda’s current political tensions and growing divisions.
A message from the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, was read by Patrick Luwagga Mugumbule, Speaker of the Buganda Lukiiko (Parliament).
The Katikkiro expressed gratitude to God for the restoration of the Kingdom and for preserving the life and leadership of the current Kabaka, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
In his message, the Katikkiro urged the people of Buganda to remain loyal to their Kabaka, uphold peace, and commit themselves to the development of the Kingdom.
He warned against actions that could divide the people, stressing the importance of unity and collective progress.
The service also featured emotional testimonies from individuals who lived through the 1966 crisis. Among them was Steven Kabuye, a retired mayor of Entebbe, who described the fear and uncertainty that gripped the kingdom at the time. He recalled how the word "curfew" became a constant in everyday life, as military patrols took over the streets of Buganda.
“These are memories etched deep in our hearts,” Kabuye said. “We pray that Uganda never sees such a day again.”
Nearly six decades later, the Buganda Kingdom continues to seek the return of properties and assets seized during the 1966 invasion. These include financial holdings and government-occupied buildings. Negotiations between the central government and the Kingdom remain ongoing, as both parties work toward a resolution.
Bishop Ssimogerere concluded the service by commending the resilience and strength of the Buganda Kingdom through the decades. He also lauded the longstanding cooperation between the Adventist Church and the Kingdom, emphasizing the need for continued spiritual and civic partnership.
As Buganda remembers the past, the kingdom looks ahead with hope and determination—committed to peace, unity, and cultural preservation amid the complexities of modern Uganda.