Catholic School Teachers Boycott USSPA Elections in Kabale Over Seat Allocation Dispute

By Gideon Tumwijukye March 10, 2024 1,630 Views

KABALE: A group of head teachers and sports teachers from Catholic primary schools in Kabale District yesterday boycotted the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association (USSPA) elections held at Kabale District Rukiiko Hall due to religious tensions.

The conflict arose from a disagreement over the allocation of seats for Anglican and Catholic representatives in the ongoing elections. Out of the 137 attendees, only 67 cast their votes, with accusations directed at the Anglican Church for securing all available seats.

Led by Pius Rwakimari, the headteacher of Bugomora Primary School and former Kyanamira Sub County LC5 councilor, Bibian Kemigisha, headteacher of Bukoora Primary School in Kitumba Sub County, Eric Mbirabiremu, headteacher of Rubira Primary School in Kyanamira Sub County, Julius Mugambagye, headteacher of Kyanamira Sub County, and Michael Byomuhangi, sports teacher at Kitibya Primary School, also in Kyanamira Sub County, the group walked out of the polling station, citing religious marginalization.

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Although they had initially requested at least one-third of the seats, they ultimately decided to boycott the elections altogether.

Rwakimari expressed his disappointment, stating that they would not participate in the polls if Catholics were not granted their fair share of representation.

CUE IN…..RWAKIMARI……ENG//

Byonabye Jennifer, the inspector of schools in charge of special needs education in Kabale District and the returning officer, condemned the situation as shameful. The elections, scheduled to begin at 10:00 AM, were delayed until 1:00 PM due to the religious discord.

CUE IN…..JENIFER……ENG//

Despite the boycott, the presiding officer, Jennifer, proceeded with the elections. Biryomumeisho Alex was elected as the chairperson, Adrine Nyongera as the vice chairperson, Milton Akankwasa as the secretary, Edward Byamukama as the deputy secretary, Gilbert Bjunuaha as the treasurer, Charity Tibahitana as the secretary for women affairs, and Christopher Niwagaba as the secretary of the organizing committee.