DF Pays A Vibrant Homage To Buganda Kingdom

Democratic Front (DF) has welcomed the final month of the year with a vibrant homage to the Buganda Kingdom.

On December 2, 2025, the party’s leading figures, including its flag bearers for Parliament and local governance, convened at Bulange Mengo, the Buganda Kingdom’s headquarters, where they participated in a unique, interactive session with Oweek. Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro of Buganda.

This gathering marked a big milestone for the new party as it aims to align its political goals with the rich cultural legacy of Buganda.

The session commenced energetically with DF President Mathias Mpuuga delivering heartfelt praise for the Buganda Kingdom.

“We are here initially to pay homage to this great institution. Historical in greatness, in importance, nurturing leadership, and in leading where others retreat or cowardice,” Mpuuga said, establishing a sincere tone for the event.

He expressed his appreciation to Katikkiro Mayiga for hosting the party, highlighting the mutual respect that exists between traditional structures and contemporary political pursuits.

Mpuuga elaborated on the party’s aspirations, asserting “As DF, we are here to pledge our support, determination, and commitment to work with the Kingdom in propagating and promoting goodness and goodwill amongst our common peoples, and promoting development for posterity.”

His remarks underscored the party’s dedication to working hand in hand with the Kingdom to create an atmosphere of unity and shared advancement.

The DF President highlighted the party’s strategic political approach, explaining why they opted not to field a presidential candidate in the upcoming 2025/2026 election season.

“We were concerned that these elections come at a time when a lot of unresolved legal disputes remain and they encumber the manner in which elections are organized in Uganda,” he articulated, demonstrating a cautious perspective on political involvement and a focus on foundational reforms.

Mpuuga fervently stressed the necessity for political transformation in Uganda, declaring, “DF asserts that for meaningful competition for the presidency, extensive reforms are essential.”

He called for a second Lancaster-like dialogue on constitutional reform, which resonated with the attendees, emphasizing the need for substantial political dialogue.

“The current system of governance was drawn from Lancaster arrangement, but of course, certain violations were made in the making of agreements and undertakings of the 1962 constitution,” he said.

Katikkiro

When his turn to speak came, Katikkiro Mayiga expressed optimism about the new party entering the political scene.

“If your stand regarding Buganda’s five aspirational pillars is clear, we are open working with you. Our heritage with the incumbent King as the head of that heritage, the second aspirational pillar is sharing power under a Federal system of government,” Katikkiro said.

He added, “The third aspirational pillar is protecting our land and borders of the Kingdom, the fourth aspirational pillar is about working hard, including health, education, creating jobs, and developing talent.”

He also articulated a vision of Buganda as more than simply a tribal kingdom, evoking a sense of refined nationalism.

Mayiga conveyed confidence in DF’s leadership, remarking, “DF is a young party with experienced leaders. These leaders are expected to appreciate the Kingdom’s aspirations and we want to know from the very beginning where DF stands in regards to overall Kingdom interests.”

In a notable gesture, DF presented copies of their written agenda to Katikkiro Mayiga, who received them warmly, and pledged to read them with a view of knowing the party’s ideas therein to shape the leadership and governance.

This colorful tribute highlighted the Democratic Front’s sincere commitment to integrating its political objectives with the cultural heritage of Buganda.

As the party moves forward, inspired by the Kingdom’s recognition of its presence, it pledges to cultivate development that honors Buganda’s rich traditions and values, while paving the way for a prosperous future for all Ugandans.