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NO RAT EATING: Regime greenlights expensive Tororo split amidst electoral concerns, UGX 26 billion cost

Baz Waiswa
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NO RAT EATING: Regime greenlights expensive Tororo split amidst electoral concerns, UGX 26 billion cost

Uganda’s ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) has given its backing to a controversial proposal to split Tororo district into an independent city and three new districts, alongside carving a new district from Bundibugyo, despite the significant financial cost and the timing coinciding with preparations for the 2026 General Elections.

The decision, announced by Government Chief Whip Hamson Denis Obua following an NRM Parliamentary Caucus meeting at State House Entebbe, will see Tororo district transformed into Tororo City, Mukuju District, Mulanda District, and Kisoko District. Concurrently, Bundibugyo District will be divided to create Bughendera District, with these new entities slated for the financial year 2025-2026.

Obua stated the move aims to “bring services closer to the people and end ethnic conflicts” in the two regions. The Minister for Local Government, Raphael Magyezi, defended the proposal, revealing that operationalizing these new administrative units would cost taxpayers an estimated UGX 26 Billion.

“Having received the report of the Minister of Local Government, to support the creation of Mukuju District, Mulanda District, Kisoko District and Tororo City in the financial year 2025-2026, subject to the law… [and] to support the creation of Bughendera district out of Bundibugyo District in the financial year 2025-2026, subject to the law,” Obua told journalists at Parliament.

Minister Magyezi robustly rebutted accusations of gerrymandering, particularly given the Electoral Commission is currently midway through organizing the 2026 General Elections, a process that new administrative units would inherently complicate due to the necessity of fresh demarcation.

“Now, where is gerrymandering in that? I don’t know who will be elected. Will the one to be elected be NRM? Will it be an FDC? Will it be an independent? The other time, we created two constituencies in Nakawa, they were taken by the opposition, have we complained? We are doing this for service delivery, for peace and security for administration,” Magyezi argued, citing the splitting of Nakawa constituency, which saw opposition Members of Parliament elected.

Magyezi emphasized that the creation of new units is a response to “the will of the people,” expressed through council resolutions from local governments. He acknowledged the substantial cost but urged Ugandans to focus on the long-term benefits of decentralized services.

“Yes, there’s no doubt it has a cost, but it also has an advantage… Once I get a council resolution from a district, then my responsibility is to carry out a technical study. Then when I realise that it is viable, I present it to cabinet and it comes to Parliament, that process is within the law and we are simply meeting the law,” Magyezi explained. He underscored the increasing population and rapid urbanization rate (5.3 percent annually) as key drivers for bringing services closer to the populace.

The Minister also addressed the complex electoral implications. The Attorney General Kiryowa Kiwanuka and the Electoral Commission will determine the precise timing for elections in these fresh constituencies once Parliament greenlights the proposal.

Magyezi referenced Section 7, Subsection 13 of the Local Government Act, which stipulates that a district created after a general election “shall take effect six months prior to the next election.” He also cited Section 21(2) of the Electoral Commission Act, which provides that if electoral processes have already begun, a newly created district will become an electoral district in subsequent elections, not necessarily halting its creation.

A significant consequence of this administrative overhaul will be the expansion of the legislative body. The creation of Mukuju, Mulanda, Kisoko, and Tororo City, along with Bughendera District, is set to “stretch the number of MPs beyond the current over 500 legislators,” according to Magyezi.

“When you create Tororo District or when you subdivide it into those arrangements, today, Tororo district has a woman Member of Parliament. Today, Tororo municipality has a municipal Member of Parliament, the creation means that the three districts each will have a woman member of parliament.”

“Yes. It also means that the city will have a city woman member of parliament and the two divisions will have two Members of Parliament,” Magyezi elaborated, highlighting the direct impact on parliamentary representation and the public purse.”

NAMUGANZA EFFECT: NRM member petitions Museveni over party election irregularities

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NAMUGANZA EFFECT: NRM member petitions Museveni over party election irregularities

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has been urged to launch an immediate, comprehensive audit of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party’s registry books, following grave allegations of widespread election fraud orchestrated by a “clique” led by NRM Election Chairperson Dr. Tanga Odoi.

The accusations, detailed in a letter penned by concerned NRM loyalist Ssemakula Yusuf, claim a systematic effort to purge individuals deeply devoted to the President and the party’s foundational ideals.

The letter, addressed directly to President Museveni, refers to him using his self-attributed titles of “Ssabalwanyi,” “Ssemalungu,” and “the Original NRA,” appealing to his historical role as the nation’s liberator and visionary leader. Yusuf expresses profound admiration for the President’s leadership but warns that the integrity of the NRM is under threat from within.

Central to the allegations is the purported targeting of loyal and high-performing NRM members, most notably the Princess Persis Namuganza. Yusuf describes Namuganza as a “steadfast servant,” whose “brilliance and hard work are undeniable,” and who has consistently faced opposition from “certain elements.”

According to the letter, the recent NRM party elections were not genuine but a “sham selection process designed to favor persons who align with the hidden agendas of these wrong elements against you, Your Excellency, and the country at large.”

Ssemakula Yusuf points to manipulated voter registers as the root of the alleged plot. “Imagine villages listed with over 800 voters in the registers, yet physically, those numbers do not exist on the ground,” the letter states, urging the President to investigate how these “wrong elements initiated their schemes.”

The concerned citizen raises serious implications for the NRM’s future, particularly in light of President Museveni’s stated focus on “protecting the gains” achieved under his leadership. “How will this be possible when a team of selected individuals has built a fence to exclude all those truly loyal to you?” Yusuf questions, asserting that retaining exemplary performers like Hon. Namuganza is crucial for the country’s continued progress.

Yusuf’s letter expresses a deep fear that if Dr. Tanga Odoi and his alleged accomplices “can manipulate a party exercise to remove your most loyal and hardworking people from office, the same tactics could one day be turned against you.” While acknowledging “talk of the so-called transition,” Yusuf firmly dismisses the notion that it should involve targeting the party’s best.

The letter culminates in an urgent plea for presidential intervention: “As the Head of State, the Original NRA, and our Ssabalwanyi, I urge you to open your eyes and investigate how and why there is a setup of people working day and night to flush out your most loyal and hardworking supporters.”

Yusuf warns that this “clique” is “ring-fencing itself around you, potentially isolating you from the true pillars of the NRM,” and suggests they “must have a bigger plan.”

Ssemakula Yusuf concludes with a poignant question to President Museveni: “Why are these people flushing out your most loyal servants? Why are they targeting the best performers? Why? The NRM cannot afford to lose Hon. Persis Namuganza.” The letter calls for prompt action from the President to address these “fraudulent actions” before it is too late.

NO PAY, NO TEACHING: Teachers’ union declares nationwide strike over unresolved salary disparities

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NO PAY, NO TEACHING: Teachers’ union declares nationwide strike over unresolved salary disparities

The Uganda National Teachers’ Union (UNATU) has announced that its members will embark on a nationwide industrial action starting September 15, 2025, coinciding with the official opening of the third school term.

The strike is a protest against the government’s prolonged inaction in addressing what the union describes as unfair salary disparities among teachers.

The decision was made following special sittings of UNATU’s National Executive Council on September 10 and Branch Chairpersons on September 11. It stems from the government’s failure to resolve salary discrepancies that emerged during the FY2022/2023 increments, which reportedly left out specific categories of teachers in primary and post-primary schools and education institutions, while some colleagues received up to a 300% increment.

According to a press release issued by UNATU General Secretary Baguma Filbert Bates, repeated engagements with government offices, including written requests for meetings with the Office of the President and the Office of the Head of Public Service, and formal communications to the Ministries of Public Service and Education, have yielded no action. UNATU also petitioned the Equal Opportunities Commission but has received no feedback on the outcome.

“Our Industrial Action over the same issue was only suspended on July 4th, 2022, to allow for negotiations,” the press release stated. “Owing to the fact that Government has remained silent about resolving the dispute for over three years, the affected teachers… who were told to be patient as Government works out a satisfactory solution… have decided to lay down their tools.”

Effective September 15, all UNATU members in the affected categories across primary and post-primary schools and education institutions are instructed not to report for duty. The union emphasized that this industrial action will remain in force until the government takes “concrete and verifiable steps” to address the salary disparities.

UNATU reiterated that the action is non-political and it solely focused on the welfare of its members; that it is a call for equity and fairness – advocating that “no teacher should be left behind in salary enhancements that all teachers matter!” UNATU added that strike is lawful and peaceful and in line with the right to take industrial action when dialogue fails.

General Secretary Bates urged the government to “urgently engage with the Union and provide a clear commitment to resolve this matter in order to avert prolonged disruption of the school calendar especially at such a critical time.”

In a direct message to its members, Bates labeled the situation “the moment of truth,” highlighting “three years of waiting. Three years of frustration” for those excluded from pay raises.

He called on every affected teacher to “remain at home” on September 15, stating, “By staying away from school, we will send a clear and unmistakable message to Government that teachers cannot and will not continue to be ignored… Let our absence from the school compounds be louder than the excuses from Government.”

HAPPY& APPRECIATIVE: Bugiri MPs hail Speaker Among’s influence for Busoga development amid regionalism concerns

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HAPPY& APPRECIATIVE: Bugiri MPs hail Speaker Among’s influence for Busoga development amid regionalism concerns

Members of Parliament Solomon Silwany (Bukhooli Central) and Asuman Basalirwa (Bugiri Municipality) have publicly lauded Speaker of Parliament Anita Among, attributing a significant surge in development projects within the Busoga sub-region to her ascent to top national leadership positions. The commendations, however, sparked an immediate clarification from the Speaker, who emphasized her national mandate.

The MPs pointed to the recent government decision to reopen Busoga University and the Parliamentary approval of a US$20 million (approximately UGX70.38 billion) loan for the rehabilitation of Bugiri General Hospital as key examples of development under Speaker Among’s watch.

Among currently holds prominent roles as Speaker of Parliament and Second National Vice Chairperson (Female) on the Central Executive Committee of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM). She is also the District Woman MP for Bukedea district in Teso sub region.

“This is the second big achievement we are getting in Busoga under your leadership,” said MP Silwany during a parliamentary session on Thursday, 11th September 2025.

“You remember very well the issue of Busoga University was sorted by yourself. Yesterday, Bugiri Hospital came and was passed in this house, and I know more things are coming. We are very proud of you Right Honourable Speaker, as Busoga and as Members of Parliament from Busoga.”

Silwany added a broader appeal for unity, stating, “I know you are going to take care of all the interests of all the other regions so that we move in unison.”

Adding a controversial dimension to the commendations, Asuman Basalirwa, a prominent MP, and President of JEEMA, an opposition political party, asserted that Speaker Among “has all the rights to favour Busoga because she is actually part of Busoga.” Basalirwa was referencing Speaker Among’s marriage to Eng. Moses Magogo, the area MP for Budiope East, who hails from the Busoga sub-region.

However, Speaker Among swiftly interjected, clarifying her national mandate. “What I do, I do for all other regions,” she affirmed, emphasizing her role as a leader for the entire nation, not just one specific region.

Leveraging the discussion, MP Silwany also urged Parliament to prioritize funding for hospitals and health centres in the upcoming budgeting cycle. “I saw the happiness and the celebration the people of Bugiri had yesterday. It means that when you touch the health [sector], you are touching the lives of Ugandans,” he stressed, highlighting the tangible impact of health infrastructure on communities.

The exchange underscores the complex interplay between regional representation, national leadership, and the allocation of development resources, while also affirming the administration’s focus on health sector development across the country.

DILAPIDATED HEALTH FACILITIES: Speaker Anita Among calls for immediate refurbishment of Kamuli Hospital as Bugiri loan triggers nationwide demands

Editorial
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DILAPIDATED HEALTH FACILITIES: Speaker Anita Among calls for immediate refurbishment of Kamuli Hospital as Bugiri loan triggers nationwide demands

The recent parliamentary approval of a USD20 million loan for the extensive upgrade of Bugiri General Hospital has triggered a wave of demands from across the country, with Speaker of Parliament Anita Among revealing that her office has been inundated with petitions for similar interventions in other dilapidated health facilities.

On Wednesday, September 10, 2025, Parliament authorized the government to borrow USD20 million from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA) to finance the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of Bugiri General Hospital.

However, the approval has opened a floodgate of requests from various leaders, prompting Speaker Among to advocate for a more comprehensive approach from the Ministry of Health.

“Upon the approval of the loan for upgrading of Bugiri hospital yesterday, I have received a number of petitions requesting that all their hospitals should be looked at,” Speaker Among stated.

She emphasized the urgent need for a systematic review of the country’s health infrastructure, urging the Ministry of Health to take a holistic view. “I think the Ministry of Health needs to comprehensively look at the hospitals which are in a dilapidated state. The petition I received this morning was from Soroti hospital but to leave Soroti alone, there are other so many hospitals that need to be looked at so that we see how we can be able to work on a number of hospitals,” she added.

Among specifically highlighted the critical condition of Kamuli Hospital, recommending it for immediate refurbishment. “If you look at Kamuli hospital, they call it Mulago, that hospital receives patients from Buyende, from everywhere. That hospital in Kamuli should actually also be worked on with all requisite needs,” she stressed, underscoring its pivotal role in serving a wide catchment area.

In a related appeal, the Speaker also called upon the government to consider deploying health workers, particularly midwives and gynaecologists, to private hospitals that are providing essential services. Citing her own 200-bed hospital in Bukedea, where women give birth for free, she noted the need for government to supplement her medical team to enhance service delivery.

Meanwhile, Charles Ayume, the Member of Parliament for Koboko Municipality, urged Ugandans not to “demonise” the government for prevailing shortfalls in the health sector. He revealed that significant advancements are on the horizon, including a major heart treatment facility soon to be established in Nakawa West, the constituency represented by the Leader of Opposition, Joel Ssenyonyi, which he stated would be one of the largest in Africa.

LEADER OF OPPOSITION: Ssenyonyi challenges govt on USD20M Bugiri Hospital loan, calls for nationwide health sector overhaul

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LEADER OF OPPOSITION: Ssenyonyi challenges govt on USD20M Bugiri Hospital loan, calls for nationwide health sector overhaul

Following parliamentary approval of a USD20 million loan for the rehabilitation and expansion of Bugiri General Hospital, Leader of Opposition (LoP) Joel Ssenyonyi has issued a stern challenge to the government, demanding timely disbursement and full utilisation of the funds. He further called for a comprehensive overhaul of all health facilities across the nation.

The loan, authorised by Parliament on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, is sourced from the Arab Bank for Economic Development of Africa (BADEA) and is intended for the rehabilitation, expansion, and equipping of the ‘very sick’ Bugiri hospital, as described by Ssenyonyi.

Speaking after the approval, Ssenyonyi voiced significant concerns about the government’s track record with borrowed funds and project implementation. “Parliament gave a green light for these USD20 Million to be gotten to rehabilitate Bugiri Hospital because that Hospital is very sick, that is for sure,” Ssenyonyi stated. “I am hoping that the excitement for the people of Bugiri will not be momentary. For many reasons. You know, many times, we borrow money and it remains undisbursed. I hope this won’t be the case because as of end of last year, in our country’s record books, we had UGX16.4 Trillion undisbursed loans.”

His remarks underscored a broader issue of financial accountability and project efficiency, highlighting the potential for much-needed funds to remain dormant while critical healthcare infrastructure deteriorates.

Beyond the immediate focus on Bugiri, the LoP broadened his demands, urging the government to undertake a “comprehensive check and conduct a complete overhaul on all health facilities in the country.” This call highlights systemic issues within the national healthcare infrastructure, suggesting that many other hospitals face similar, if not worse, conditions and are in dire need of intervention.

Ssenyonyi’s remarks came as several other legislators echoed similar sentiments, requesting that hospitals in their respective constituencies also receive much-needed rehabilitation and attention, mirroring the plans for Bugiri General Hospital. The collective call from Members of Parliament reflects a widespread concern over the state of public health facilities across Uganda.

The approval of the BADEA loan for Bugiri represents a significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, but Ssenyonyi’s intervention underscores the critical need for accountability, efficient execution, and a broader strategic vision for improving Uganda’s health sector to ensure that the borrowed funds translate into tangible, lasting improvements for citizens.

MOMENTUM HIGH: Busoga Youth Council mobilizes for Kyabazinga’s 11th Coronation with service, green initiatives

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MOMENTUM HIGH: Busoga Youth Council mobilizes for Kyabazinga’s 11th Coronation with service, green initiatives

The Busoga Kingdom Youth Council is spearheading a series of impactful community and environmental initiatives as part of the Coronation Week festivities, building momentum towards the 11th anniversary of Kyabazinga Isebantu William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope Kadhumbula IV.

The celebrations are set to culminate on Saturday, September 13, 2025, at the Busoga Kingdom Headquarters in Bugembe.

Yafesi Gasemba, Chairperson of the Busoga Kingdom Youth Council, expressed profound appreciation for the dedication shown by young people in these activities. “Allow me to extend heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for the commitment and energy you continue to show towards the Coronation Week activities,” Gasemba stated.

On Tuesday, the youth council demonstrated its commitment to public service through an extensive communal activity at Jinja Main Hospital. Volunteers engaged in promoting cleanliness and good sanitation, leaving a visible and positive impact.

“Today, Tuesday, we once again demonstrated the spirit of unity and service through the wonderful communal activity at Jinja Main Hospital, where together we promoted cleanliness and good sanitation for the benefit of our people,” Gasemba noted. “Your participation has left a lasting impact and is a true reflection of the values we uphold as the young people of Busoga.”

Looking forward, the youth council has outlined a comprehensive schedule of activities aimed at community betterment and environmental conservation. These include xpanded Sanitation Drives: The initiative to promote cleanliness and sanitation will extend to various other hospitals across Jinja, ensuring improved health environments for patients and staff; Malaria Prevention Campaign: As part of their health outreach, the youth will donate mosquito nets to individuals encountered during their community engagements, aiming to curb the spread of malaria; Extensive Tree Planting: A significant environmental effort is underway to plant trees at hospitals, schools, churches, mosques, and various district and division offices. “We want Busoga to be green as a sign of nature conservation,” Gasemba emphasized, highlighting a commitment to a sustainable future.

Youth Empowerment Campfire is a special event planned to bring together Busoga’s youth. This gathering will serve as a platform for educational discussions on critical social issues, including early childhood pregnancy prevention and the protection of the girl child.

These activities are all leading up to the grand 11th coronation anniversary of Isebantu William Wilberforce Gabula Nadiope Kadhumbula IV, which will be celebrated with pomp and tradition.

Gasemba reflected on the Kyabazinga’s eleven-year reign, noting the significant strides made in youth development. “In the eleven years, the youth have attained education through the Kyabazinga bursaries,” he highlighted.

Furthermore, he noted a growing understanding and respect for cultural values among the younger generation, attributing this to the monarch’s leadership and the kingdom’s educational initiatives.

Urging continued enthusiasm, Gasemba concluded, “As we continue with the programs lined up for the week, let us keep the momentum high, remembering that all these efforts are building towards the grand Coronation Anniversary on Saturday, September 13. Thank you for your dedication, teamwork, and love for Busoga. Together, we are making this Coronation Week truly memorable.”

UNLAWFUL DRILLING: Remanded Waiswa Mufumbiro alleges political persecution facilitated by rival Michael Kabaziguruka following his arrest and remand to prison

Baz Waiswa
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UNLAWFUL DRILLING: Remanded Waiswa Mufumbiro alleges political persecution facilitated by rival Michael Kabaziguruka following his arrest and remand to prison

Alex Waiswa Mufumbiro, the Deputy Spokesperson of the National Unity Platform (NUP), has been remanded to Luzira prison on charges he vehemently denies, calling his incarceration “political persecution” allegedly facilitated by a fellow opposition politician and electoral rival, Michael Kabaziguruka.

Speaking to journalists from his holding cell at Kawempe Magistrate’s Court, Mufumbiro, who is vying for the Nakawa East Member of Parliament seat, accused Kabaziguruka of being a “security operative” and orchestrating his arrest.

“Last night, they were convincing me to stop supporting Bobi Wine. And I told them that is out of my order,” Mufumbiro stated. “I also want to tell the country that my arrest was facilitated by Kabaziguruka Michael, the person I am contesting against. He works for security. He is a security operative, and he is aware of whatever is happening to me.”

Mufumbiro has been remanded alongside Saudah Madaada, a popular NUP member, and seven others, including Eddie Mutwe, Achileo Kivumbi, and Tasi Calvin (Bobi Giant). The group faces charges of unlawful drilling, conspiracy to commit a felony, and other related offences.

Grade One Magistrate Damalie Agumaasiimwe remanded Mufumbiro and his co-accused to Luzira prison until September 29th, when they can apply for bail.

The accusations against Kabaziguruka, a member of the People’s Front for Freedom (PFF) and also an aspirant for the Nakawa East parliamentary seat, intensify the political rivalry in the constituency.

In 2016, Kabaziguruka, then under the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC), successfully contested and won the Nakawa Division parliamentary seat, defeating the then Attorney General Fred Ruhindi.

The National Unity Platform has strongly condemned the arrests and subsequent remand of its members. In a statement, NUP described the actions as a “gross rights violation.”

“We strongly condemn the gross rights violations by the criminal regime and the hostile manner in which our comrades are brutally roughed up and unjustly detained,” the NUP statement read.

“The blatant misuse of the courts of law to silence the dissent of course projects a regime thriving on borrowed time. Very soon it is the oppressed Ugandans that will have the final laugh.”

The allegations of political persecution and the involvement of a rival opposition figure in Mufumbiro’s arrest are likely to stir further debate and tension within Uganda’s political landscape, particularly as general elections draw closer.

UPDATE: Bugabula through, Bukooli Bugiri exit as Butembe change home

Musa Kikuuno
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UPDATE: Bugabula through, Bukooli Bugiri exit as Butembe change home

Wednesday 10th September Results

Bugabula 1-0 Bukooli Bugiri

Bugabula became the first team to qualify for the quarterfinals of the 2025 Busoga Masaza Cup after edging Bukooli Bugiri 1-0 on Wednesday evening at Kamuli Municipal Stadium.

The decisive goal came from striker Edgar Magombe, who has now scored twice in this year’s competition. Wearing shirt number 9, Magombe also netted in the opener against the same Bukooli Bugiri at Hindocha Primary School playground, underlining his importance to Bugabula’s campaign.

With this result, coach Ronald Lukungu’s side tops Bukowe Group on nine points from three games, having scored five goals and yet to concede. Goalkeeper Reagan Mudusu, defender David Balondemu, and midfielder Michael Kimuli have been central to Bugabula’s solid run. They still have one more group fixture against Luuka on September 24, but their place in the last eight is already sealed. Bugabula continues its consistent record of reaching the knockouts since the post-Covid return in 2022.

For Bukooli Bugiri, defeat confirmed their elimination, joining Bunhole Bunhanumba among teams yet to register a point. Their slim mathematical chance would require Bugabula to beat Luuka and for them to defeat Luuka by at least eight goals—an almost impossible task.

In other developments, Butembe officially changed their home ground to Mafubira Primary School (Kavule playground) for Match 25 against Bukooli Namayingo, though the date and kickoff time remain unchanged. The move was confirmed by the Tournament Organizing Committee. Butembe patron Edrine Lufafa had earlier hinted at shifting venues to spread the spirit of the competition across the chiefdom while promoting the theme of “Abasaadha n’empango” meaning “Men as pillars in preventing teenage pregnancy and early marriages,” championed by UNAIDS and Busoga Kingdom.

Action continues today in Kagulu Group as Buzaya host Bunha at Lwanyana Primary School. With all three teams—Bulamogi, Bunha, and Buzaya—locked on two points from two matches, a victory for any side could spark their quarterfinal hopes.

Remaining fixtures in Kagulu Group

Sept 11: Buzaya vs Bunha

Sept 18: Bunha vs Bulamogi

Sept 25: Bulamogi vs Buzaya

CULTURE & POLITICS: Nambeshe accuses gender ministry of fueling Bamasaba cultural rift, warns of petition

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CULTURE & POLITICS: Nambeshe accuses gender ministry of fueling Bamasaba cultural rift, warns of petition

The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development stands accused of actively fueling a deepening rift within the Bamasaba Cultural Institution, according to Opposition Chief Whip John Baptist Nambeshe.

Nambeshe, who also serves as the Manjiya Member of Parliament, announced that the Bamasaba community plans to petition Speaker Anita Among, putting the Ministry “on notice” for alleged interference.

His strong remarks were made during a parliamentary session where legislators were congratulating the Tooro Kingdom on its 30th coronation anniversary. Speaking passionately, Nambeshe highlighted a growing division within the cultural leadership, attributing it directly to the Ministry’s actions.

“The Bamasaba are soon paying you a courtesy call with a petition putting the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development on notice for meddling in the affairs of the kingdom,” Nambeshe stated during the session.

He elaborated on the nature of the conflict, revealing the existence of a “serious rift madam speaker of a clique of self-seekers among the Bamasaba who have created their own kingdom called Inzu ye Bagisu which is parallel to Inzu ya Masaba.”

Nambeshe emphasized the detailed nature of the upcoming document, adding, “The rest you will see it, which is well articulated in that petition by your humble petitioners madam speakers.”

The Bamasaba, primarily residing on the slopes of Mount Elgon in Eastern Uganda, have long been represented by the Inzu ya Masaba cultural institution, led by the Umukuka (cultural leader).

The emergence of a parallel institution, Inzu ye Bagisu, as alleged by Nambeshe, signifies a significant challenge to the traditional leadership structure and unity of the community.

Nambeshe’s accusations suggest that the Ministry, which is mandated with overseeing cultural institutions, may have inadvertently or intentionally contributed to this fragmentation.

The planned petition to Speaker Anita Among underscores the gravity with which the Bamasaba leadership views the situation, seeking parliamentary intervention to address what they perceive as undue external influence.

While the specific details of the Ministry’s alleged involvement remain to be fully disclosed in the petition, Nambeshe’s public statement puts the issue squarely in the national spotlight. As Parliament continues its business, all eyes will now be on the anticipated petition from the Bamasaba community, and the subsequent response from both the Speaker’s office and the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development regarding these serious allegations.

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