Objectives:
This landmark legislation restored assets and properties previously confiscated from traditional rulers following Uganda’s post-independence upheavals. The Act was passed in 1993, allowing for the reinstatement of traditional leaders and the return of some of their properties, following the constitutional restoration of the institution of Traditional Ruler.
Restitution measures:
Restoration of palaces, Bulange (parliament buildings), tombs, and other ceremonial structures without requiring negotiations
Return of the iconic Lubiri Palace to Buganda Kingdom
Restoration of Kasubi Tombs management to Buganda Kingdom after reinstatement in 1993
Ceremonial regalia and cultural artifacts restoration
Limitations:
Legal complexities regarding whether properties belonged to individual rulers or kingdoms redistributing land
Ongoing disputes over land ownership versus ceremonial use
Limited scope covering only specific categories of assets
Exclusion of certain commercial properties and extensive land holdings
Requirement for separate negotiations on contested properties
The Act facilitated cultural restoration while balancing state interests with traditional governance.
