(Kampala) – The Kampala Lord Mayor, Erias Lukwago, has called for an apology from Speaker of Parliament Anita Among regarding comments she allegedly made about “defeating Buganda” in connection with the Coffee Amendment Bill. The controversy stems from an audio clip circulating on social media, which Lukwago claims reflects an anti-Buganda sentiment and promotes sectarianism. He stated that such remarks could foster dangerous sentiments contrary to the principles outlined in the Rome Statute.
Speaking to the media, Lukwago stressed the significance of initiatives like “Emwanyi Terimba,” which aims to boost coffee production in the Buganda region. He condemned any actions perceived as interference with this vital sector, highlighting the importance of supporting local agriculture.
“We condemn the circulating audio purportedly showing Speaker Among obstructing the voting process on the Coffee Amendment Bill, and we demand an apology,” Lukwago said. This statement underscores the tension surrounding the legislation and its implications for the Buganda Kingdom.
The event where Lukwago made these comments also served as a formal ceremony for the Buganda Kingdom, during which newly appointed chiefs for the Kyadondo region were introduced. Hajj Magandazi Matovu was named the new chief, supported by Ronald Bukulu and Dr. Phiona Kalinda as his deputies. Ahmed Lwasa, the Second Deputy Speaker of the Buganda Lukiiko, officiated the event in place of Buganda Kingdom Premier Charles Peter Mayiga.
At the ceremony held at the Kyadondo headquarters in Kasangati, Wakiso District, various leaders, including Lukwago and Wakiso Woman MP Betty Ethol Naluyima, attended. These officials expressed their discontent with the government’s recent decision to reintegrate the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA) into the Ministry of Agriculture, arguing that this move undermines the authority’s independence.
The leaders emphasized that coffee production is central to Buganda’s identity and has played a significant role in improving household incomes among the Kabaka’s subjects. They believe that any disruption to this sector could adversely affect the economic stability of many families in the region.
Hajji Magandazi, the newly appointed chief, expressed his gratitude to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II for the opportunity to serve and pledged to advocate for the interests of the Buganda Kingdom in Kyadondo and beyond. He succeeds the late Agnes Nakibirige Ssempa and continues a legacy of notable Kyadondo chiefs.
In addition to Magandazi, other leaders were appointed to various roles within the kingdom, including Lubega Amina for agriculture and tourism, Kimbowa Daisy Wanyana for unity, Dr. Zaitun Yahaya for culture and norms, Kimbugwe Agnes for women’s affairs, Muddu Thomas for youth, Kawooya Hamidu for trade, Ssengendo David Enock for land and housing, and Jaffer Senganda for projects and development.
