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In the Buganda Kingdom, the pivotal moment of succession occurs when a barkcloth is laid on the body of the deceased Kabaka, signifying the next ruler. The prince who performs this ritual first is crowned as the new Kabaka, except for one exception.
Kiweewa, the eldest son of the Kabaka, is the only prince prohibited from participating in the succession ritual. Unlike traditional crown prince systems, all princes, excluding Kiweewa, are potential candidates for the throne.
To pave the way for Prince Mutebi’s ascension to the throne, a daring move was made by the late Jolly Joe Kiwanuka.
He smuggled a barkcloth to England, where Prince Mutebi conducted the sacred ritual at the residence of Captain Ronald Owen, a trusted associate of Muteesa II.
Contrary to common practices, the reigning Kabaka does not appoint a successor. This crucial task falls upon the Lukiiko lwa Buganda, the kingdom’s Parliament, to identify the most suitable candidate to be the next Kabaka.
Influencing the succession process
Historically, reigning Kabakas held the power to shape the succession by providing focused attention and training to potential successors.
The selection process was overseen by Kasujju Lubinga, an official from the Lugave Clan, who presented the candidates to the Lukiiko for their decision.
Upon the Lukiiko’s announcement of the new Kabaka, preparations for the coronation ceremony commenced.
The Kabaka emphasized to the Bataka Abobusolya (Clan Heads) that while they do not elect him, their roles in the process are significant.
Tales of intrigue and tragic ambitions
In the past, stories abound of power struggles and tragic events surrounding succession. Princes engaged in fierce rivalries, and some mothers went to extreme lengths to secure the throne for their sons, as seen in the case of Muganzirwazza, the mother of Muteesa I.
Despite the complexities of succession, certain individuals, like Prince Nuhu Mbogo, stood apart due to their singular pursuits. His dedication to Islam spared him from the tumultuous world of royal ambitions, focusing instead on his own spiritual path.
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