Archbishop Lwanga got it wrong on Buganda

The sermon that Dr Lwanga never gave was that had we a more prudent government, the Shs500 billion lost annually to corruption would help prop schools that once were the shining stars—and not the ruins of the former selves as we know them today. That then parents would not shun Tororo College or St. Joseph’s, Ombaci or Nyakasura School, to flood children to Kitende or Namugongo. In doing this, Lwanga would make it clear that it is not just a Buganda question that is unsolved; it is a national leadership question. Maybe then, rather than rally to a cocoon of tribe for shield, Archbishop Lwanga would rise to the national occasion and preach that we all are made under the image of God, whether Mugisu, Muganda or Sabiny. That then, rather than look for what divides man, we should see what bonds us—but remain firm in resisting those who abuse God-given tasks—like leadership of a country. To illustrate this point; he drew from the concordat arrangement between the Vatican and Italy. The impression he gave was that the Vatican is basically an independent state—right—but what he did not mention is that the Vatican’s business is purely religious. Such that when you talk of the Vatican having a security machinery—it is designed to protect the church not fight secular wars. It is why you won’t see a Vatican force in Afghanistan. But let’s get back to the question of Buganda. I was as concerned about the message as I was concerned about the messenger. As a disclaimer, the archbishop said the views were made in his private capacity as a citizen. Well, but how do you explain making these views on a global religious holiday, among people who have come to celebrate Christ’s resurrection? Obviously, there is no fooling about it; the message was designed as part of a larger Easter package. Couldn’t the archbishop have waited until later; called a press conference and shared his opinions? And to his content: What has “Uganda” done so badly to “Buganda” that suddenly associating with the rest of the country is like shaking hands with a leper? Calls for secession must be deep rooted. When Biafra sought to break away from Nigeria, it was a reaction to mass slaughter of Igbos in 1966—and the quest for oil control. When Katanga threatened to break away from DR Congo—it was the work of a puppet Moitse Tshombe and Belgian commercial interests eyeing rich minerals in the province. What dynamics today are prevailing that would make a man, whose duty is to preach peace, unity and reconciliation, make a bold case for division—and although veiled; for tribalism? Buganda, lately faults the government for holding onto its property despite restoring kingship in 1993. These are mainly former ssaza headquarters. Mengo also wants a free hand on influencing matters land and revenue generated from the region, while demanding semi-autonomy (or federalism).