Lukiiko warns on strategy

Apr 02, 2008

Members of the lukiiko (Buganda parliament) have advised the Katikkiro (premier) to move cautiously in implementing his plan of developing Mengo.

By Josephine Maseruka

Members of the lukiiko (Buganda parliament) have advised the Katikkiro (premier) to move cautiously in implementing his plan of developing Mengo.

This was after Eng. J.B. Walusimbi on Monday presented a 10-year development plan, where he indicated the need to develop idle land at the Mengo palace and Kasubi ancestral tombs.

Joseph Balikuddembe, a Lukiiko member, said kingdom rules barred businesses like fuel stations, garages and warehouses at the palace.

These investments, he said, threatened Baganda traditional norms and cultures.

Balikuddembe said it would be a security risk to construct an airstrip at the Mengo palace, the Kabaka’s seat.

“I propose that the Mengo palace development committee comes up with a master plan, present it to the Katikkiro, cabinet, clan heads and the lukiiko. It should also get views from the public before it is finally adopted by the lukiiko.”

Ssevvume Musoke (Bugerere) said the Baganda were tired of the impressive policy statements by premiers, which are never effected.

“We want to have something to show to the Kabaka and his subjects. Joseph Ssemwogerere talked of completing the Bulange Plaza when the current katikkiro was his finance minister. The plaza rhetoric is back.”

He was interrupted by Lwanyaga Kiwanuka (Butambala) who cautioned him against judging others and not appreciating people’s contributions.

John Ssebaana Kizito, who hailed the peace talks between the Government and LRA leader Joseph Kony, said Buganda may also need the services of a mediator to argue its case for federo.

P.K. Ssengendo (Busiro) offered his coffee processing plant to the kingdom to start a Buganda coffee marketing board.

Dr. Jack Luyombya demanded that the kingdom ‘starts biting’ government officials, who attack it.

“We should not turn the other cheek when slapped. It is time we started talking in a language that those abusers understand.”

The Katikkiro promised to consult all stakeholders before undertaking any major project.

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