BULANGE – Kabaka Mutebi has said the widespread corruption in the country is to blame for the rising spate of murders.
Speaking at his 25th silver jubilee celebrations in Mengo, Kampala, the Buganda king said massive corruption is prompted by greed and has caused a total breakdown of the social fabric.
“This country will continue to deteriorate if prevailing levels of corruption remain unchecked,” Kabaka said at the celebration that was attended by the leader of Ghana’s Ashante Empire, Otumfour Nana Osei Tutu II, Vice president Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, several kings and cabinet ministers
“Previously, parents taught children how to avoid greed and indeed children grew into good mannered citizens. But during this era, there is a lot of greed among people and this is why we witness a lot of corruption,” he said.
“You cannot fetch water in basket and deliver it home. If greed is not decisively handled our nation will not develop yet our people are determined to work for national development,” he warned.
The Kabaka warned that corruption has created socio inequality.
“Therefore I appeal to leaders and parents to caution our youths to be wary of greed. I appeal to whoever is responsible for money to deliver it to intended destinations so that people can receive services to develop our nation so that people are happy in their nation looking for greener pastures.”
The Kabaka urged Ugandans to revive cooperative unions as a way of fighting the high rate of non-employment.
“Our grandfathers initiated cooperative unions and many people received employment from these unions and our economy was boosted. But these unions died in wars and unfortunately many have not been revived.
Cooperatives come from people and not the government,” he said, adding that the government is simply a regulator.
I implore our people to do all is possible like our grandparents, to revive cooperative unions so that we work together and mobilise money then our children will be employed,” he said.
The Kabaka also warned that statistics indicate that HIV/AIDS is taking more root in the country. He challenged Ugandans to take HIV checks so that early medication and counselling takes place. Kabaka Mutebi is the goodwill ambassador of UNAIDs.
The event was also attended by at least 50 Members of Parliament, the Kyabazinga of Busoga and Kampala Archbishop Kizito Lwanga among others.
The Asantehene, Otumfour Nana Osei Tutu II, said African governments should partner with traditional institutions to cherish national growth.
“Fortunately here and in Ghana, the value of traditional government has not been lost and can foster peace, development and unity. In that regard, we pay tribute to President Museveni who 25 years ago took a bold a step to restore the kingdom,” he said.
He said it is important for Africa to examine the importance of traditional institutions in development and entire economic agenda.
“Traditional leaders across the continent must therefore use institutions for stability and unity; mobilize people to protect their heritage and identity. Regardless of tribe and language we are all one people,” he added.
