By Faith Kwagala
In Buganda Kingdom, tradition dictates that the firstborn son of the Kabaka does not automatically inherit the throne. Cultural norms discourage a crown prince system, allowing any eligible son—except the firstborn, known as Kiweewa—to be considered for kingship. This system is intended to prevent conflicts and protect the reigning Kabaka.Kabaka Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II’s firstborn, Prince Savio Muwenda Kiweewa, is therefore not the direct heir. Historical accounts also reveal that Mutebi has an elder brother, Kiweewa Kimera Masambu, who lives in Canada.Experts say Buganda’s succession system prioritizes stability and consensus over birth order, a practice rooted in history and reinforced to avoid internal power struggles within the kingdom.