As Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II turned 70, Rubaga Cathedral transformed into a mosaic of culture, devotion, and political symbolism, drawing thousands of Buganda’s subjects and dignitaries for a special mass held in his honour.
Dressed in traditional kanzus and gomesis, guests began arriving at the cathedral as early as 10am. Among them were members of the Buganda royal family, Buganda chiefs, politicians, students, and faithful from various religious backgrounds. Many who had attended the Palm Sunday service earlier in the day lingered, eager to witness a moment they described as “historic.”
The cathedral grounds were filled to capacity by 2pm, with guests seated both inside and under tents outside the church. A well-rehearsed choir set the tone for the celebration, performing hymns that blended religious reverence with cultural pride.
Yet, the ceremony was not without its moments of political intrigue. The crowd outside, watching the proceedings on giant screens, frequently erupted in cheers whenever National Unity Platform (NUP) president Robert Kyagulanyi, also known as Bobi Wine, appeared on screen. Seated next to him was Mathias Mpuuga, the former Leader of the Opposition, who recently fell out with the party over corruption allegations.
Their presence together – whispering, occasionally smiling – captivated many, hinting at a possible thaw in icy relations.
The audience stood still when Kyagulanyi was formally introduced by a member of the clergy. The NUP leader knelt respectfully before Nnaabagereka Sylvia Nagginda, the Queen of Buganda, drawing warm applause from the crowd. She was accompanied by other royanl family members, including Prince David Wasajja and his wife.
Though no central government official addressed the congregation, Buganda Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga acknowledged a message from Gen. Salim Saleh, President Museveni’s brother.
In a speech steeped in vision and reflection, Mayiga reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to socioeconomic transformation and cultural preservation, saying:
“Our vision is to reposition the kingdom at the helm of social and economic well-being, with all people fully enjoying their freedoms and rights.”
He stressed the importance of unity, federalism, land protection, and hard work. Highlighting Kabaka Mutebi’s contribution to education, agriculture, and health, Mayiga pointed to initiatives like the Kabaka Education Fund and agricultural campaigns promoting coffee growing and mechanized farming.
“The Kabaka has ensured that every household strives toward self-sufficiency. Through handing over tractors, he emphasized the role of agriculture in fighting poverty,” Mayiga said.
He also praised the medical teams, both local and international, who supported the Kabaka during recent illness, and thanked God for the King’s life and resilience.
A Legacy Forged Through Turbulence
The day was also an occasion to reflect on the history and survival of the Buganda Kingdom. Mayiga recounted how Kabaka Mutebi was born in exile in France, at a time when his father, Ssekabaka Edward Muteesa II, had been overthrown. He revealed that the King’s birth on April 13, 1955, had been foretold by Muteesa, who promised that if the child was male, he would become Buganda’s 36th King.
Buganda’s turbulent past — from the disappearance of Chwa Nabakka, to colonial interference in Mwanga’s reign, and the 1966 crisis that led to the abolition of monarchies — was invoked as a reminder of how far the Kingdom has come.
Mayiga credited three monarchs — Ssekabaka Kimera, Daudi Chwa, and Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II — for restoring and protecting Buganda’s cultural heritage.
“This Kingdom has survived three major leadership crises. It has always found a way to return stronger. That is the spirit we celebrate today,” he said.
‘No One Will Destroy Buganda’ — Archbishop’s Assurance
Presiding over the mass, Archbishop Paul Ssemogerere delivered a message of hope and strength. He said those who seek to destabilize Buganda often aim to weaken the Kabaka, but insisted that such efforts would fail.
“No one will destroy Buganda as long as her people continue to love and serve their King,” the Archbishop declared. “We thank God for granting him life this far and pray that he continues to serve his people with strength and wisdom.”
As the mass concluded, the atmosphere remained celebratory yet reverent — a clear demonstration that the Kabaka’s legacy is more than a royal lineage; it is a symbol of identity, continuity, and the enduring spirit of the people of Buganda.