FDC hails government on 'ebyaffe'

By Andrew Ssenyonga

KAMPALA - Main opposition party, the FDC, has hailed the government for committing to return Buganda Kingdom’s properties that were confiscated way back in 1966.

Last Friday evening, news emerged of government signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with top Buganda kingdom officials, a move that paved way for the return of ‘ebyaffe’ – the kingdom’s properties.

The development came on the eve of Buganda celebrations to mark 20 years since Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was officially enthroned.

During their weekly meeting, Forum for Democratic Change spokesman, Wafula Oguttu expressed the party’s approval of the move.

“We want to applaud the Government and President Museveni in particular for the great gesture of giving back what belongs to his people,” he said on Monday at the party’s headquarters in Najjanankumbi in the capital.

“We also commend the Kabaka for his forbearance and negotiations throughout this process.”

The said Buganda assets were taken for administration by the provincial Government after the abrogation of the 1962 Constitution.

According to the MoU signed on Friday, the properties to be returned include the kingdom’s official estates for the Masaza, Amagombolola, properties of chiefs, and others.

News of the Friday evening development that took place at State House in Entebbe added to the bonfire of excitement preceding the coronation main festivities.

President Museveni was among Kabaka Mutebi’s several guests who included foreign envoys, political figures, religious and cultural leaders, and scores more.

On his part, FDC’s Wafula congratulated the Kabaka upon marking his 20th coronation anniversary.

He noted that it was not only Buganda that lost property, but also other kingdoms and thus, ought to be considered.

Wafula also wished Muslims peaceful and fruitful Idd el-Fitr celebrations.