Buganda’s grand tradition of celebrating its kings took an unexpected turn on July 31, 2024. The day marked 31 years since King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was crowned as the Kabaka, but in a twist that could rival even the most outrageous Ugandan soap operas, the king himself was notably absent from the grand event.
In true royal fashion, instead of making a regal appearance, Kabaka Mutebi opted for a modern approach. He sent a pre-recorded video message from his Nkoni Palace in Buddu District, while his loyal subjects packed into the historic St. Paul’s Cathedral, Namirembe. This move had all the grandeur of a traditional Buganda celebration—minus the actual presence of the guest of honor.
The church service, which would have made any classic Bugandan celebration proud, was held indoors due to the rain, turning the cathedral into something of a royal viewing lounge for over 1,000 attendees. Among those present were Queen Sylvia Nagginda, Prince Richard Ssemakookiro, and various other notable figures, all huddled in the cathedral or peering through giant screens set up in tents outside.
| Event Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | July 31, 2024 |
| Location | St. Paul’s Cathedral, Namirembe |
| King’s Presence | Virtual via pre-recorded video |
| Notable Attendees | Queen Sylvia Nagginda, Prince Richard Ssemakookiro, Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga, and more |
| Weather | Rainy |
In his video, Kabaka Mutebi expressed gratitude for reaching this milestone, thanked the medical team for their ongoing care, and hinted at some recent royal drama. Apparently, recent months have been riddled with “ignorance or deliberate schemes” by individuals who tried to mess with the established norms of the kingdom.
Despite the king’s physical absence, the event was anything but dull. Buganda Prime Minister Charles Peter Mayiga, who seemed to have taken over the royal duties with gusto, used his platform to slam those allegedly plotting against Buganda. In his address, he emphasized the kingdom’s unity as a formidable force against divisive attempts “There may be people trying to disorganize us, but they will not succeed with disuniting us.”
Meanwhile, outside the cathedral, students from various schools and entertainers performed lively tunes, praying for the Kabaka’s long life. The performers seemed determined to bring a touch of lively street shows to the event, ensuring the celebration retained its vibrant spirit even in the king’s physical absence.
As for the Kabaka’s health, the recent saga of his return from Namibia added another layer to the royal drama. After a visa denial that kept him out of the country for over three months, Kabaka Mutebi’s return and subsequent video message only heightened the sense of intrigue surrounding him.
The whole affair, described as a “thanksgiving service,” still had the kingdom’s flair. Despite the absence of traditional outdoor festivities and rituals, which would normally include everything from dance performances to ceremonial rites, the day concluded with the Kabaka’s digital presence keeping the royal spirit alive.
Mutebi became Buganda’s 36th king on July 31, 1993, following in the footsteps of his father, Edward Muteesa II, who died in exile in Britain 1969. This year’s celebration, while unconventional, was a testament to the fact that even in absence, the Kabaka remains the heart of Buganda’s celebrations and struggles alike.
While the rain made an appearance in the day’s drama, it was Kabaka Mutebi’s virtual presence that stole the show, proving that even royal celebrations can adapt to modern times—or at least to the whims of weather and health challenges.
