Daudi Kabanda, the Executive Assistant to the National Chairman of the Patriotic League of Uganda (PLU), has clarified that respecting the Katikkiro of Buganda Charles Peter Mayiga does not prevent people from disagreeing with his views on certain issues.
Kabanda made the remarks while addressing a press conference in Kampala, where he responded to recent comments made by the Buganda Kingdom Prime Minister regarding freedom of expression and speech-related offences.
The PLU National Chairman’s Executive Assistant said he holds the Katikkiro in high regard and considers him a role model when it comes to public leadership and service.
However, he emphasized that respect for a leader does not mean that every opinion expressed by that person must automatically be accepted without debate or criticism.
Kabanda said that in any democratic society, different views and discussions are expected, especially on issues that affect the country’s laws, security and public order.
Speaking on behalf of Gen. Muhoozi Kainerugaba, according to his statement, Kabanda expressed disagreement with what he described as the Katikkiro’s recent position on speech-related offences.
Katikkiro Mayiga had reportedly stated that in a democratic society like Uganda, it was improper and undesirable for individuals to be prosecuted or imprisoned over offences connected to speech.
Responding to the remarks, Kabanda said PLU believes that freedom of expression must be balanced with responsibility and respect for the rights and safety of other citizens.
He argued that while freedom of speech is an important constitutional right, it should not be interpreted as allowing individuals to promote messages that can cause hatred, violence or harm in society.
Kabanda said PLU understood the Katikkiro’s position to suggest that even extreme forms of harmful speech could be protected under freedom of expression.
He referenced examples of hate speech that has contributed to violence in different parts of the world, arguing that such forms of communication should not be ignored in the name of free speech.
According to Kabanda, societies must create a balance between protecting individual freedoms and preventing speech that threatens peace and national unity.
He maintained that the government has a responsibility to address speech that can create divisions, incite violence or endanger the lives of citizens.
The PLU official said disagreement on such matters should not be viewed as disrespect, but rather as part of democratic discussion and the exchange of ideas.
He reiterated that his admiration for Katikkiro Mayiga’s leadership remains unchanged despite their differences on the issue of freedom of expression.
Kabanda described the Katikkiro as an important figure in Buganda and Uganda who has contributed greatly to public leadership and community development.
He said that leaders, regardless of their positions, should be open to constructive criticism and alternative viewpoints.
The debate over speech-related offences has continued to attract attention in Uganda, with different political and social actors holding varying opinions on the limits of freedom of expression.
While some leaders argue that speech must be protected as a fundamental human right, others insist that there must be consequences for statements that threaten public safety or promote hatred.
Kabanda’s remarks have added to the ongoing national conversation about balancing individual freedoms, public responsibility and the role of the law in regulating speech.
He concluded by maintaining that PLU respects the Katikkiro of Buganda but reserves the right to disagree with his views on issues where they hold different positions.
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