By Vision Reporter
PRESIDENT Yoweri Museveni on Monday met a delegation from the Rwenzururu Kingdom led by Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere.
During the meeting held at his country home in Rwakitura in Nyabushozi county in Kiruhuura district, Museveni hailed the people of Rwenzururu for resolving their differences that led to the restoration of the kingdom.
A statement issued by State House yesterday said the President also appealed to the group to resolve other issues peacefully to ensure unity in the kingdom.
Present were defence minister Dr. Crispus Kiyonga and the South Rwenzori Diocese bishop, Rev. Jackson Thembo Nzerebende.
“Museveni told Mumbere that neither him nor the National Resistance Movement (NRM) have ever opposed the restoration of the Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu as portrayed by elements that are opposed to the Government,” the statement said.
The President, it added, “clarified that the delay in restoring the Obusinga was caused by disagreements among the different groups in the kingdom, with some of them in support of the institution while others opposed to it.”
Mumbere ascended to the throne on October 19, 1966 when he succeeded his father Isaya Mukirane, who had launched the Rwenzururu armed struggle against the Toro kingdom. He was crowned king on October 29, 2009 in Kasese district at an event that also marked 43 years since he ascended to the throne. Museveni attended the event.
The statement added that President said the Government supports the restoration of any cultural institution as provided for under Article 246 of the Constitution.
He also assured the kingdom of Government support.
On the increase in unemployment among the youth in the area, the President called on the Rwenzururu leaders to advise the youth to undertake marketable courses especially in science and technology.
Mumbere commended Museveni for supporting the Rwenzururu kingdom and for enuring that the prevailing peace and development in the area.
“Mumbere assured the President that the Obusinga bwa Rwenzururu will continue to work with the Government to steer development,” a memorandum by the king read.
