The Chief Justice of Uganda, Alphonse Owiny-Dollo has apologized over his wrong and inappropriate reference to the Majesty the King of Buganda.
Dollo, last week while addressing mourners at the vigil of departed Speaker of Parliament Jacob Oulanyah said that it was wicked for some people (referring to NUP supporters) to protest the decision to fly Oulanyah to the US when their “ethnic leader (referring to Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi), was at one time flown Germany using a Presidential jet.”
But Buganda’s premier Charles Peter Mayiga would later clarify that His Highness Ronald Mutebi used KLM flight to seek medical treatment in Germany.
“I hereby unequivocally, unreservedly, and of my free volition, wholly retract that reference; and also hereby tender my apology to His Majesty, the Kabaka,” Mr Dollo issued a statement on Tuesday.
FULL STATEMENT
Last week, during the vigil held at the home of the fallen Speaker of Parliament, Rt Hon Jacob Oulanyah, I made a speech that was Laden with unbearable grief and pain for the demise of our departed brother.
This grief and pain (were) exacerbated by those who had exhibited unthinkable callousness while the Speaker was fighting for is life, and, have continued to do so even when he lies dead.
I castigated the perpetrators of these evil deeds in no uncertain language.
However, in the course of this emotional expression, I made a wrong and inappropriate reference to His Majesty, the Kabaka of Buganda.
I hereby unequivocally, unreservedly, and of my free volition, wholly retract that reference; and also hereby tender my apology to His Majesty, the Kabaka.
I will immediately hereafter communicate to the Katikkiro of Buganda in writing, registering this apology.
Otherwise, I stand firm in my castigation of those who mercilessly tormented Jacob Oulanyah at the time he needed compassion most; and, who continue to inexplicably dance on his grave.
I reiterate that this contravenes our much- cherished African culture and it must be condemned by all people of good will.
I also reiterate the statement I made about my admiration of, and long-standing association with, the people of Buganda among whom I have lived for the greater part of my life.
I call upon them to be wary of people who are now seen as representing the views of Buganda but instead tarnish the great name of Buganda.
On this, I speak from experience; the Acholi having suffered the tragic repercussions caused in part by our failure to shun and restrain those who were ill -placed to occupy position as opinion leaders influencing the course of events in our society, for which we have paid a heavy price.
I reiterate my appeal to the people of Buganda to learn from our experience.
In this regard, I do profusely hail Katikkiro Charles Peter Mayiga for his press release which has demonstrated maturity, magnanimity, soberness, and a conciliatory tone.
That reflects and displays the true nature of the Buganda I have always proudly associated myself with given the tone of communication by the Rt Hon Katikloro, we can now all in harmony accord the Rt Hon Jacob Oulanyah a dignified funeral, concluding with his burial to which everyone is most welcome to attend.