The Buganda Kingdom has appealed to politicians campaigning in different parts of the country to stop using abusive and provocative language. Instead, the Kingdom encourages them to seek votes peacefully and respectfully by presenting their programs to the people rather than engaging in insults.
According to the Kabaka’s Minister in charge of Cabinet and Royal Guests, Noah Kiyimba, who was addressing groups of the Kabaka’s subjects from Ssingo and Buddu counties at Bulange Mengo, such behaviour has increasingly been seen in Buganda. He warned that this conduct undermines the dignity of the Kingdom.
As politicians continue to move around the country soliciting support, the political season has become heated. Amid this, some politicians have resorted to trading insults and using vulgar language—actions the Kingdom strongly condemns.
Kiyimba noted that this trend of attacking and belittling one another has become common among politicians in Buganda. He urged them to stop and instead focus on presenting their development plans to voters.
“Many politicians have been seen abusing each other, which is very shameful. I urge you—stop the insults and instead present your programs to the voters,” said Noah Kiyimba.
The Kabaka’s Minister for Regional Government and Diaspora Affairs, Joseph Kawuki, also added his voice, warning those attempting to tarnish the Kingdom’s image during this political season. He called on the Kabaka’s subjects to remain firm and continue supporting and protecting the Kingdom.
Religious leaders from Buganda, led by Bishop Tomusange William from Mityana, also commented on the current political climate. They said politics should be conducted freely and peacefully, citing the incident where Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu was injured while campaigning in Kawempe as an example of escalating political violence.
Speaking during the handover of oluwalo (community contributions) from four sub counties in Buddu and one sub-county from Ssingo,Noah Kiyimba urged parents across Buganda and the entire country to pay close attention to their children during the holiday.
He warned that many children spend excessive time on mobile phones, which exposes them to eye-related health complications as well as inappropriate content.
“Children are spending too much time on phones, and this can cause eye problems. They also access harmful content online. Parents, please be vigilant and monitor them closely,” Kiyimba cautioned.
Kiyimba further advised parents to take their children to markets and teach them their mother tongue, culture and traditions, pointing out that many young people have drifted away from their cultural heritage.
“Parents, ensure your children learn their language. It is very important for preserving our culture and traditions,” he said.
Kiyimba also encouraged the Kabaka’s chiefs to actively participate in the various developmental activities of the Kingdom and perform their duties diligently in order to lift Buganda to greater heights.
“Be involved in the Kingdom’s work that is aimed at restoring Buganda’s glory. Be exemplary in everything you do,” he added.
Chiefs from the different sub-counties also presented their reports highlighting progress in their counties and the challenges they face.