By IP Reporter
KAMPALA, Uganda — President Yoweri Museveni’s government has donated 30 new vehicles to traditional and cultural leaders across Uganda, a move aimed at boosting their roles in promoting peace, unity and development.
The gesture has sparked controversy after the powerful Buganda Kingdom declined to accept the offer.
During a ceremony at Kololo Independence Grounds in Kampala, Vice President Jessica Alupo delivered Museveni’s message, saying the cars would help cultural leaders reach their communities more effectively and support efforts to mobilize for social transformation.
Fifteen cultural institutions received two vehicles each — a lead car and a backup — in what officials described as part of a wider effort to support indigenous governance structures.
Beneficiaries included the kingdoms of Tooro, Bunyoro, Acholi, Lango, Busoga, Bunyole, Bwamba, and Kumam.
However, the Kingdom of Buganda, the country’s largest and most influential cultural institution, declined the donation.
The government initially claimed Buganda had opted for a cash alternative, but the kingdom’s spokesperson later denied any communication or request for assistance. “We didn’t receive any offer and we didn’t ask for one,” he said.
Adding to the intrigue, Buganda’s King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II was seen arriving for a public appearance in a high-end 2024 Lexus LX SUV, reportedly a gift from loyal subjects.
The timing of the gift, days before the government’s donation ceremony, appeared to signal Buganda’s preference for independence from state support.
Another kingdom, Bugwere, also turned down the donation, citing a vacant throne. Officials say the car will be delivered once a new cultural leader is installed.
The government insists the donations are non-political and part of a broader effort to empower cultural institutions to address issues such as land disputes, teenage pregnancy and poverty.
However, critics argue the gesture could be interpreted as political patronage ahead of the 2026 elections, where Museveni is expected to seek a seventh term.
The public split between the state and Buganda has reignited debate over the role of traditional leadership in Uganda’s politics and whether such support compromises their autonomy.
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