By Nasser Kayanja

KAMPALA — The Katikkiro of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, has tasked the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus to work towards improving the Kingdom’s representation in Parliament, saying the region’s number of legislators does not reflect its population.

Mayiga made the remarks while meeting members of the Buganda Parliamentary Caucus, who paid a courtesy visit to him at Bulange Mengo in Kampala.

The caucus was led by its chairman, State Minister for Fisheries and Buvuma County MP Robert Migadde Ndugwa.

Mayiga expressed concern that Buganda, despite being one of the most populous regions in the country, has relatively few legislators, which he said limits the region’s ability to influence issues affecting the Kingdom.

He cited Karamoja as an example, noting that its population is estimated at about two million people, compared with Buganda’s population of nearly 15 million.

Mayiga said the issue of equitable parliamentary representation should be given attention, arguing that population should be among the factors considered when determining representation in Parliament.

He also reaffirmed Buganda Kingdom’s commitment to supporting the socio-economic development of the central region, with particular emphasis on improving healthcare services.

Mayiga commended the central government for expanding electricity distribution and its efforts in managing the country’s oil resources.

However, he urged the government to prioritise environmental protection and strengthen the health sector as Uganda develops its petroleum resources.

Migadde, who also represents Buvuma Island in Parliament, pledged to work with fellow legislators to advance the five-point agenda of Buganda Kingdom.

He also asked the Katikkiro to consider expanding the scope of the Kabaka’s floating clinic so that it serves the wider Buganda region rather than being associated exclusively with the Ssese Islands.

The meeting was part of ongoing engagements between the Buganda Kingdom and legislators from the region on matters concerning social, economic and political development.