31 October 2008
Kampala — THE long wait for a new Busoga king ended amid controversy yesterday after Prince Edward Columbus Wambuzi Muloki was selected Kyabazinga. He replaces his father, the late Henry Wako Muloki, who died on September 1.
Seven out of 11 chiefs chose 35-year-old Muloki by consensus. Those who chose Muloki were Mukajjanga Luba of Bunyha, Wellington Tabingwa of Luuka, Kisiki of Busiki, Badru Ntembe of Butembe, David Wakooli of Bukhooli, Muloki of Bulamogi and Nanyumba of Bunyoli.
Muloki's rival, Gabula Nadiope of Bugabula chiefdom, walked out protesting heavy deployment of Police and the army outside the Bugembe kingdom headquarters, where the election was taking place. He suspected rigging.
Fred Kakaire of Bugweri chiefdom, Christopher Mutyaba of Bukono chiefdom and Izimba Patrick of Kiguulu chiefdom did not turn up.
Muloki rode on his late father's fame. The chiefs also see him as a favourite of President Yoweri Museveni, so he is likely to ensure good working relations with the Government. He was also considered to be experienced as he was exposed to the day-to-day running of kingdom affairs during his father's reign.
Muloki called upon the Basoga to unite and develop their region. "I pledge to work diligently for the good of Busoga. Let's unite and develop our region" Muloki said amid ululation.
Soon after taking the throne, Muloki was driven by Prime Minister Wilson Muwereza around Jinja town in an open-roof white Mercedes, waving to the people.
The Constitutional Court had earlier suspended the election following a petition by two chiefs who are are contesting a clause in the Busoga constitution, which says only five of the 11 chiefdoms can produce a king.
His election, however, got a lukewarm reception from sections of the Basoga. Some claimed the process had been politically hijacked.
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