President Yoweri Museveni has appointed Henry Lutwama as the Special Presidential Assistant and Coordinator of the Bataka in Buganda, a position based at State House.
The appointment takes immediate effect, according to a confirmation letter from the Ministry of Public Service issued on the directive of the President.
In the letter, the Permanent Secretary stated that the President, exercising powers under Article 172(1)(a) of the 1995 Constitution (as amended) and on the advice of the Public Service Commission, had directed Lutwama’s appointment to the position in the Public Service of Uganda.
Lutwama has welcomed the appointment, expressing gratitude to President Museveni and pledging to work closely with all relevant stakeholders.
“I am grateful to His Excellency the President for this appointment, and I look forward to engaging respectfully and working collaboratively so that our cultural heritage continues to contribute meaningfully to peace, unity and socio-economic progress,” Lutwama said.
Before his appointment, Lutwama served as a Political Assistant to the State Minister for ICT and National Guidance, where he was involved in political mobilisation and public engagement. He has also previously held leadership positions at the Kampala Capital City Authority, with a focus on community mobilisation and development initiatives.
The Bataka are traditional clan heads in Buganda and are widely regarded as custodians of the kingdom’s culture, lineage and customs. They play a key role in preserving Buganda’s indigenous governance structures and cultural heritage.
Following his assumption of power in 1986, President Museveni initiated engagements with Bataka leadership on key national issues, including the restoration of the Buganda Kingdom. These efforts culminated on April 3, 1992, when the Army Council, meeting in Gulu, passed a resolution supporting the restoration of the monarchy, paving the way for the return of the Kabaka.
Since then, the President has maintained working relations with the Bataka on cultural and social matters relating to Buganda’s traditional institutions.
Lutwama’s appointment is expected to enhance coordination between the Presidency and Bataka leadership, particularly in the areas of cultural affairs and community engagement in Buganda.