A longstanding dispute over the custodianship of Sekabaka Kalema Tombs has taken a significant turn, as the High Court in Kampala has granted an interim injunction in favor of Nalinya Maria Luwedde.
The ruling effectively bars Prince Edward Kimera and his agents from accessing the historic site, pending resolution of the main case.
The order, issued by Deputy Registrar Simon Kintu Ziruntusa, also prohibits Prince Kimera from organizing events or conducting cultural or religious ceremonies at the tomb.
The court’s decision followed a successful application by Nalinya Luwedde, who seeks formal recognition as the custodian of the tombs.
According to court documents, Nalinya has been the officially recognized custodian within the Buganda Kingdom’s administrative hierarchy.
The records indicate that it is a notorious cultural norm within the Baganda that the custodians of the tombs are female Baganda known as “Nalinnya”.
Nalinya’s lawyers, Messrs. Mwasa, Nakitto and Company Advocates, argued that Prince Kimera’s actions have caused their client significant strain and inconvenience.
The dispute highlights tensions between Prince Kimera and Nalinya, with allegations of Prince Kimera attempting to invite Muslim leaders to conduct prayers at the tomb without Nalinya’s consent.
Nalinya claims Prince Kimera’s actions are driven by self-interest and aimed at dividing the Muslim community.
In a related development, Prince Kimera recently met with Dr. Sheikh Shaban Ramadhan Mubaje, the Mufti of Uganda, to discuss celebrating the late King Kalema’s life and legacy ¹. However, the court’s decision has effectively blocked the planned event.
Among the demands by Nalinya Luwedde is court’s declaration of custodianship with recognition as the lawful custodian of Sekabaka Kalema tombs, ejecting order removing of Prince Kimera from the tombs and premises, a permanent Injunction restraining him from accessing the tombs or conducting cultural/religious rituals and general damages as compensation for inconvenience and interest on all monies, plus costs of the suit.