Summary:
Led by Dr. Francis Runumi, former Kabale District LC5 Chairman, the elders claimed that political leaders are more concerned about boundary disputes and personal political interests than the development of the region.
KABALE: The Kabale District elders have accused Kigezi parliamentary and local leaders of deliberately stalling the operationalization of Kabale Tourism City.
The accusations were raised on Tuesday during a meeting of the Kabale District Elders Forum, held at the Kabale Municipality Main Hall. The forum, which brings together elders from the districts of Kabale and Rubanda, expressed deep frustration over the delay.
Led by Dr. Francis Runumi, former Kabale District LC5 Chairman, the elders claimed that political leaders are more concerned about boundary disputes and personal political interests than the development of the region. Runumi alleged that Members of Parliament are opposing the city’s establishment because it could affect their political influence and investments in past campaigns.
Runumi specifically pointed fingers at Kabale District Chairman Nelson Nshangabashaija, accusing him of consistently delegating his deputy to avoid being seen opposing the city’s formation directly.
“This is not about budgetary constraints; it’s about selfish interests,” Runumi stated, adding, “There is no more time to waste—Kabale City must become operational.”
CUE IN RUNUMI…..ON KIGEZI LEADERS….RR/ENG//
Maj. Gen. Sabiiti Timothy Mutebiile, Chairperson of the Kabale District Elders Forum, echoed Runumi’s sentiments, stressing the need for a city that is free from political, religious, and sector-based biases to drive the development of the Kigezi region. Mutebiile criticized Kigezi politicians for their self-centeredness, which he says has significantly hindered the operationalization of Kabale City.
CUE IN MUTEBIILE……ON THE MATTER…..ENG//
However, State Minister of Finance Henry Musasizi provided a contrasting view last month. He stated that the Cabinet, in its meeting on December 16, 2024, resolved to halt the creation of new administrative units due to the substantial funding they require. Musasizi emphasized that these financial resources are better allocated to essential services such as road construction and maintenance, education, health facilities, and poverty reduction initiatives like the Parish Development Model.
“The government has outlined its priorities for the next financial year and medium term, focusing on agro-industrialization, oil, gas, minerals, tourism, science and technology, defense and security, irrigation, key roads, electricity, and social services,” Minister Musasizi explained.
He further noted that even existing cities and municipalities are struggling due to underfunding and are operating within outdated budget frameworks established before their upgrades.
