By Aggrey Baba
The titular head of Muslims in Uganda, Prince Kassim Nakibinge, has responded to President Museveni’s recent apology to the Baganda by setting clear conditions for reconciliation and meaningful reform.
Speaking during Eid al-Adha prayers at Kibuli Mosque on Friday, Nakibinge welcomed Museveni’s gesture but noted that the apology must be followed by real efforts to correct what has gone wrong over the years.
He said that while Museveni’s words of regret might show a change of heart, Buganda and the broader country now expect visible actions to back those sentiments.
Nakibinge emphasized that Museveni should begin by addressing the longstanding issues that have affected the kingdom during the NRM’s time in power.
Among these is the demand for the return of properties belonging to the Buganda Kingdom, which the government has delayed despite earlier commitments. According to Nakibinge, the delay has created frustration and is widely seen as an obstacle to the region’s economic development.
He added that Museveni must change the way he relates with his political opponents, suggesting that cooperation would benefit the country more than confrontation, pointing out that brutalizing opposition figures and their supporters does not reflect a leadership that is truly committed to reform or unity. He encouraged the President to engage meaningfully with those who disagree with him for the sake of national harmony.
The prince also called for the release of political prisoners, noting that many Ugandans are behind bars simply for expressing dissent, singling out individuals such as Edward Ssebuufu (Eddie Mutwe), who is unwell while in detention.
Nakibinge urged that such prisoners be taken for medical care so they can stand trial in better health, as required by law and basic human rights standards.
As the country prepares for the 2026 general elections, Nakibinge reminded Museveni, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, of his duty to ensure that the military and other security organs promote peace rather than fear.
He referred to the conduct of security personnel during the recent Kawempe North by-election, where several people were beaten and arrested. The violence surrounding that election ultimately contributed to the nullification of NUP candidate Elias Nalukoola’s victory by court, a development that many have interpreted as a violation of the people’s will.
Nakibinge further expressed concern over incidents where security forces have clashed among themselves, citing a recent altercation in Wakiso District, where soldiers attached to the Special Forces Command (SFC) allegedly attacked the District Police Commander, leading to a shootout between the two sides.
He warned that such incidents not only confuse the public but also undermine the credibility of the country’s security institutions.
His comments come in the wake of President Museveni’s public apology, which was delivered jointly with the First Lady, Janet Museveni, during a national interfaith prayer gathering at Kololo, recently, under the theme “Light Up Uganda for Jesus.”
The President asked for forgiveness from the people of Buganda and the nation at large for mistakes committed by the NRM over the past forty years, marking a rare moment of reflection by the long-serving leader, who came to power in 1986 with significant support from Buganda. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
