The 32nd coronation anniversary of Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was marked with celebration, prayer, and heartfelt messages—despite the monarch’s physical absence.
Held at Kibuli Mosque in Kampala on Thursday, the event brought together a wide range of guests including the Nnabagereka (Queen) Sylvia Nagginda Luswata, members of the royal family, religious leaders, politicians, and loyal subjects of the Buganda Kingdom. The air was filled with both reverence and unity, as the Kingdom gathered to honor a reign now spanning over three decades.
In a reassuring message delivered by the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of Buganda, Charles Peter Mayiga, the Kabaka’s voice resonated through a pre-recorded address. “The King is present in his palace, reigning over Buganda, and he sends his greetings,” Mayiga told the audience.
Though the Kabaka was not physically present at the celebration, his spirit certainly was.
Katikkiro Mayiga explained the continued absence of the Kabaka from public events, attributing it to medical advice.
“He is continually getting better,” he said, “but his doctors have advised that he cannot yet be in such gatherings.”
The Katikkiro emphasized that even the King’s own staff have been instructed to avoid burdening him with heavy duties during this recovery period. “We are not doctors, so we follow their advice,” he added with a tone of solemn respect.
The Kabaka recently returned from Germany, where he had undergone another round of medical assessments, as part of ongoing care.
The mood at Kibuli Mosque was far from somber. Instead, it radiated hope and dedication. Prince Richard Ssemakookiro and other members of the royal family were in attendance, as were prominent figures like Prince David Kintu Wasajja, Princess Christine Nabanakulya, and Nalinnya Beatrice Namika.
Their presence, alongside the Queen’s, underscored a message of continuity and stability in the Kingdom—despite the King’s health concerns.
Katikkiro Mayiga concluded his remarks with a message that echoed through the crowd: “We continue to pray that he recovers fully.”
It was a powerful moment of unity—a Kingdom standing together, honoring tradition while looking toward the future with hope.
