For the first time, social and political commentator Frank Gashumba has publicly addressed the rumors surrounding his strained relationship with his adopted daughter, Aisha Nabukeera.
The speculation intensified after Frank Gashumba was noticeably absent from Nabukeera’s recent traditional marriage ceremony.
Public opinion has been divided, with many criticizing Nabukeera for excluding the man who has long been referred to as her “guardian angel.”
Their relationship dates back to 2006 when Gashumba took her in after she suffered severe burns allegedly inflicted by her stepmother. Since then, he has supported her through her education and personal development, treating her like his own child.
Gashumba confirmed he indeed took Nabukeera under his wing during a time when many had turned their backs on her. However, he explained that his absence at the ceremony was intentional and, in his view, necessary.
“Had I attended, I would have ceased to be her guardian,” he said, referencing traditional cultural norms.
According to Gashumba, in Baganda culture, a daughter is expected to inform her paternal aunt about her chosen partner. The aunt then relays this to the father or guardian, who is responsible for organizing the marriage ceremony.
“In what capacity was she going to invite me?.If she had done that, it would mean I was no longer her guardian, but just another guest.”,he questioned.
Meanwhile, Gashumba also shared personal news: he and his wife, Malaika Mutoni, recently welcomed a baby. The child, now a month old, was born on August 11th. While many have just started congratulating the couple, Gashumba noted that the news is not new.
He took the opportunity to urge the public to keep their private and family matters off social media, which he described as an unregulated space full of negativity.
“It’s only people like me with thick skin who can handle it,” he said, adding that even President Museveni’s grandchildren have managed to remain out of the public eye for decades.
