President Museveni has persistently refused to restore Obugabe bwa Ankole and discussing the matter is considered a crime even though the 1993 Act on the restitution of cultural leaders and the 1995 Constitution of Uganda clearly mandate the restoration of all former kingdoms, including Ankole Kingdom.
It is well known that President Museveni perceives the return of the Ankole king to his rightful role as a potential threat to his political dominance in Western Uganda.
This concern arises from the understanding that the royal family holds significant cultural and historical importance, which could rally the people of Ankole to oppose him like they refused to support him in the 1980 Presidential Election when the royal Family refused to endose him asserting he was Rwandese. Th fear of losing crucial backing from Western Uganda explains Museveni’s reluctance to reinstate the cultural rights of Obugabe bwa Ankole.
Ankole Kingdom boasts a rich cultural heritage that deserves recognition and respect by th ruling government.
The King is a symbol of this heritage and should not face backlash for his royal lineage because being born into royalty is not a crime but a vital aspect of the cultural identity for the Ankole people.
Restoring the rights of Obugabe bwa Ankole would not only honor the cultural identity of the Ankole people but also promote unity and pride within the region.
The denial of cultural rights associated with Obugabe bwa Ankole is not just matters of tradition but also represent a violation of the human rights of the King whose life is being threatened by President Museveni.
The Ankole people deserve to celebrate their heritage free from political interference of President Museveni and It is time for Banyankole to unite and advocate for their rightful rights by demanding the restoration of the mighty Ankole Kingdom and the rights of their king.
Dear Banyankole, no matter where you are,
Let us come together to defend our culture!Let us call for the restoration of Obugabe bwa Ankole’s cultural rights. Together, let us raise our voices and send a strong message to President Museveni by pushing him to restore our cultural legacy and ensure that our traditions are respected and honored by his government.
Join us in the fight for the rights of Obugabe bwa Ankole.
By Matsiko Chrispus,
Former LCV Chairperson Aspirant
Ntungamo District.
