Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga has urged the central government to intensify the fight against corruption and embezzlement of public funds, warning that the vice continues to undermine service delivery and slow economic growth.
Mayiga made the remarks at Bulange, Mengo, during a Lukiiko sitting attended by Buganda’s ministers, county and sub-county chiefs, and other kingdom officials.
Dressed in a black suit with a blue shirt and tie, Mayiga told journalists that corruption remains a major obstacle to infrastructure development, particularly road construction.
“In Buganda and the country at large, we are still struggling with poor roads, which greatly affect the transportation of agricultural produce from rural areas. Due to corruption, this challenge has not been adequately addressed,” he said.
He noted that despite increased investment in coffee growing by the Kabaka’s subjects, farmers continue to face high transport costs because many roads are impassable or poorly maintained.
Mayiga said the government should prioritise the construction of roads in areas with high population density and strong income-generating potential, arguing that such investment would boost productivity, create jobs, and contribute to the country’s gross domestic product.
As he approaches 13 years in office, Mayiga also called on the government to demonstrate accountability in the use of taxpayers’ money, saying this would encourage voluntary tax compliance.
He expressed concern about proposed taxes on essential commodities such as cooking oil, fuel, and cement, arguing that such measures could hinder economic growth in a developing country.
“In countries like Sweden and Japan, taxpayers’ money is handled with utmost respect, and tax evasion is treated as a serious offence. Uganda should learn from such examples,” he said.
Mayiga further urged the government to maintain peace and stability, noting that insecurity discourages investment. He emphasised the need to uphold constitutionalism and called on security agencies to stop arbitrary arrests of opposition members.
He also appealed to the Judiciary to ensure the timely administration of justice.
On Buganda’s outstanding rental arrears owed by the central government, Mayiga commended authorities for partial payments, which he said have supported key kingdom programmes such as the Kabaka Education Fund, construction of water sources, immunisation campaigns, and mobilisation for development.
However, he urged the government to clear the remaining arrears.
During the meeting, several county chiefs, including those from Bulemeezi, Kyaggwe, Kyadondo, and Gomba, raised concerns over the circulation of counterfeit fertilisers and pesticides, land grabbing, and attempts to sell family burial grounds.
They also highlighted the declining use of the Luganda language in mainstream and social media.
Other chiefs pledged continued support for kingdom development programmes such as coffee growing, Ssemaduuka, education, and sports initiatives, including the Bika football tournament.
