Katikiro Mayiga calls for peaceful leadership change

19 March 2025, 9:13 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

The Katikkiro of Buganda Kingdom, Charles Peter Mayiga, has called on leaders to embrace peaceful transitions of power, stating that a smooth handover is not a sign of weakness but a mark of integrity and good leadership, which is highly desirable to those who cherish peace. Mayiga made these remarks yesterday in Mengo, Kampala, as he bid farewell to the Rt Rev Henry Katumba Tamale, the retiring Bishop of West Buganda Diocese. He urged both political and religious leaders to prioritise national unity and development, emphasising that leadership is a responsibility to be exercised with dignity.

“Leadership change should be handled with dignity, not conflict. A leader who hands over power peacefully is not weak, but honourable,” Mayiga stated. Rt Rev Katumba Tamale, who led a delegation from West Buganda, reflected on his eight-year tenure as the seventh Bishop of the diocese. He expressed gratitude to the Kingdom of Buganda for its unwavering support throughout his service.

“I have been blessed to shepherd the people of the Kabaka. Buganda has been a strong pillar in my leadership, and I deeply appreciate the unity and guidance I have received,” the bishop said. Mayiga also commended Bishop Tamale for his contributions to the diocese, particularly in uplifting the economic and spiritual lives of the people while respecting Buganda’s traditions.

“Bishop Tamale has led with wisdom and humility, strengthening the church while upholding the values that unite us as a people. His leadership has been exemplary,” Mayiga said. Mayiga went on to urge Ugandan leaders to learn from religious institutions in ensuring smooth and peaceful leadership transitions. He stressed that clinging to power breeds unnecessary instability and undermines progress.

“Leaders should not fear change. When your time comes, step aside with dignity and allow new leadership to take over,” he urged. Mayiga also criticised the harassment of journalists and political figures by security forces, warning that such actions undermine democracy and free expression.

“Intimidation of journalists and politicians is a disgrace to our values. True leadership is built on respect, not suppression,” he said. As Bishop Tamale steps down, the Kingdom of Buganda has pledged full support for the incoming eighth Bishop of West Buganda, Ven. Rev Gaster Nsereko, who is set to be installed later this week in Kako, Masaka. The transition marks a new chapter for the diocese, with Nsereko expected to build on the foundations laid by his predecessor.

Bishop Tamale also expressed his joy at being referred to as the Katikkiro’s Bishop. He began his service to God in the 1980s and has been married to Rev. Elizabeth Julia Katumba Tamale, with whom he has five children. He assumed the responsibility of Bishop of West Buganda in 2016.