Former Katikkiro of Buganda, Dan Muliika, has openly expressed his displeasure with the current restrictions that limit the kingdom’s clan leaders (Bataka) from freely accessing the Kabaka, Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II.
His comments were in response to an incident that took place in July, where five Buganda clan heads traveled to Namibia to visit the ailing Kabaka, despite being advised not to by the current Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga.
During his thanksgiving ceremony on Friday, Muliika questioned Mayiga’s authority to stop the Bataka from seeing the Kabaka, saying that it was wrong to impose such restrictions.
“One of the Bataka informed me that they wanted to travel to Namibia to check on the Kabaka, but the Katikkiro was against it. How can he (Mayiga) stop a Mutaka from visiting their King?” Muliika questioned.
He further emphasized that the Bataka should have the freedom to visit the Kabaka whenever they wish, without having to seek permission from anyone, including the Katikkiro.
“The clan leaders felt they needed approval from the Katikkiro before traveling. These kinds of restrictions are causing division within Buganda,” he added.
The trip made headlines when the Bataka were denied access to the Kabaka by his medical team in Namibia. At the time, the Kabaka was receiving treatment in Okunguarri, Kunene Province, which is about 700 kilometers from Namibia’s capital, Windhoek.
Namibian police stopped the clan leaders about 200 kilometers from Windhoek, returning them to the city for questioning, which led to diplomatic tensions.
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni also weighed in, criticizing the clan leaders for what he described as an embarrassment to the country.
In a letter, Museveni urged Ugandans to avoid situations that could bring shame to the country, stating that only the Kabaka’s immediate family or people authorized by him should be allowed to visit him.
This incident has sparked mixed reactions, particularly among Buganda’s subjects. Some argue that clan leaders should have direct access to the Kabaka, while others side with Mayiga, who insists that the Kabaka is not an ordinary person and his privacy must be respected.
Muliika, however, holds firm in his belief that the Bataka should not need permission to visit the Kabaka.
“No soldier or King’s guard has the right to stop a Mutaka from seeing the Kabaka in his palace,” Muliika reiterated.
The controversy has highlighted the growing division within Buganda, raising questions about the traditional roles of the Bataka and their relationship with the Katikkiro’s office.
