The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has warned that Uganda's economy risks suffering if growing insecurity is not addressed, saying incidents of kidnappings and alleged torture of citizens could discourage both local and foreign investment.
Mayiga made the remarks while addressing the Buganda Lukiiko during the presentation of the Kingdom's Shs409 billion budget for the 2026/2027 financial year at Bulange, Mengo.
He called on leaders at all levels to uphold the rule of law and respect Uganda's Constitution, saying constitutionalism remains the cornerstone of justice, good governance and national stability.
"It is important that anyone suspected of committing an offence is arrested in accordance with the law. Where possible, arrests should be conducted during the day rather than at night. Those making the arrest should properly identify themselves, and suspects should not be tortured or subjected to humiliation," Mayiga said.
The Katikkiro stressed that criminal investigations should precede prosecution and that every accused person is presumed innocent until proven guilty by a competent court.
"A person who has been arrested should not be treated as guilty before the courts have determined the case. The law must be followed at every stage of the justice process," he said.
Mayiga argued that respect for due process and the rule of law is essential for sustaining investor confidence and promoting economic growth, warning that the prevailing security situation could negatively affect the country's investment climate.
"When the rule of law is respected and justice is seen to prevail, investors gain confidence in the country. The current financial year is one of concern because of the insecurity we are witnessing," he said.
The Buganda Lukiiko also received and deliberated on the Kingdom's 2026/2027 budget, valued at more than Shs 409 billion, outlining priorities aimed at advancing cultural preservation, socio-economic development and institutional growth.
The budget session was attended by several religious and political leaders, including the Archbishop of Kampala, Paul Ssemogerere; Orthodox Metropolitan Jeronymos Muzeeyi; Minister of Lands Judith Nabakooba, who represented the central government; members of the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, including Kawempe North MP Luyimbazi Nalukoola and Busujju County MP David Lukyamuzi Kalwanga; the Leader of the Opposition in Parliament, Joel Ssenyonyi; and other invited guests.
