By Henry Mukasa

Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki was on Tuesday awarded an honorary Doctorate of Laws degree of Makerere University in salutation of his “illustrious and distinguished service” to the nation, region and continent.

Makerere chancellor, Prof. Mondo Kagonyera conferred Kibaki with the doctorate at a colourful ceremony held at the Freedom Square, characterized by a performance by Music Dance and Drama (MDD) students. Uganda President Yoweri Museveni attended the ceremony.

The vice-chancellor, Prof. Venansius Baryamureeba explained that according to the University statute, the Doctor of Laws (LLD) is awarded for public service excellence, eminent statesmanship, admnistration work and to lawyers.

Kibaki, adorned in a brightly coloured red academic gown and sitting opposite the chancellor, removed his cap as Kagonyera placed his on the president’s head and declared his conferment of the doctorate.

“It’s a great joy to be here to receive an honorary Doctor of Laws degree of Makerere University. I accept it with great humility,” Kibaki stated, much to the crowd’s ululation.

“This is a great honour to me, my family and the nation of Kenya. I shall cherish it the whole of my life,” the president of Kenya added.

Praises

Reading out the citation, Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo from the School of Women and Gender Studies observed that President Kibaki’s excellent academic performance, satisfactory economic record, laudable social and political reforms compelled his alma mater to confer one of its prestigious awards to him.

The chairman of the Makerere University Convocation, Bruce Kabaasa Balaba, said Kibaki was chosen for the prestigious award because, despite his first class degree at bachelor’s level, he did not seek greener pastures but returned to Makerere to teach for a modest pay.

He also mentioned that when he resigned from cabinet and became an opposition leader, as head of the Democratic Party (DP), he never caused any violence in Kenya.

“You won elections and have been president for 10 years. That’s fine; we know it makes you happy. But you led a process which gave Kenya a new constitution that limits the powers of the president,” Balaba enumerated, drawing applause from the congregation.

In his remarks, President Museveni commended Makerere University for its recognition of Kibaki, saying the university had set a yardstick which will be a foundation for the guidance of students and the young people alike.

He said like a sign of the cross is used during baptism, awards were an outer sign to reflect the inner appreciation of someone’s contribution.

Museveni said he was impressed by the number and speed of innovations at Makerere and promised more support.

The two presidents also jointly inaugurated the constituent colleges of Makerere University. Scholars, students, politicians including the Speaker of the EALA attended.

Baryamureeba announced the formation of the Mwai Kibaki Endowment Fund that shall raise funds to put up a building at Makerere University named after him. He said it will serve as a centre of excellence for present and future generations.