By Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L. H. D. (Hon.)
Kampala, Uganda — 23rd December 2025

His Majesty the Kabaka of Buganda, Muwenda Mutebi II, has issued a Christmas and New Year 2026 message, thanking the people for their prayers and expressing concern over rising political violence, economic pressures, food insecurity, and insecurity affecting communities across the country.

In his message, the Kabaka expressed gratitude to God for enabling the nation to reach Christmas 2025 and appreciated the continued prayers and love shown to the Kingdom and its leadership.
However, His Majesty voiced deep concern over reports of violence during the ongoing political period. He cited incidents in which people have been beaten, candidates blocked from addressing voters, and other actions that violate the law and fundamental human rights.

The Kabaka called upon the National Electoral Commission to go beyond condemning such acts and to actively ensure that all candidates, without bias, are able to freely present their messages to voters without intimidation or torture. He emphasized that violence and lawlessness undermine civility and do not reflect national progress.

Addressing electoral conduct, His Majesty questioned the growing trend of excessive spending in politics, warning that leaders elected through money-driven campaigns often prioritize recovering campaign expenses rather than serving the public. He described this practice as a root cause of corruption and a major obstacle to national development, urging citizens to vote carefully and responsibly.

On climate and food security, the Kabaka noted with concern the continued scarcity of rainfall across much of the country. He observed that the expected rains during November (Museenene) and December (Ntenvu) did not materialize, severely affecting food crops such as maize and beans.

He urged citizens to prioritize the storage of food, particularly dry foodstuffs, as a key livelihood strategy. Additionally, he called on government to intensify efforts to provide irrigation equipment—especially to communities near water sources—and to reduce taxes on irrigation machinery to make it affordable for ordinary citizens.

His Majesty also raised alarm over reports of missing children and cases of extreme violence involving the killing of children and removal of body parts. He expressed concern that such practices, once thought to have ended, have resurfaced. He further cited attacks by machete-wielding criminals, locally known as ab’ebijambiya, who target people at night.

The Kabaka urged the public to remain vigilant and to protect themselves and their children, particularly during the festive season. He also called upon security agencies to step up efforts to safeguard lives and property.

In conclusion, His Majesty extended warm wishes to the people, praying for joy during Christmas and peace and good health in the New Year.

“We wish you a Merry Christmas full of joy and a New Year filled with peace and good health,” the message read.
(Signed)
Muwenda Mutebi II
Kabaka of Buganda