Catholic Schools in Kabale District Abstain from USSPA Elections Due to Religious Tensions

Senior Reporter

A group comprising head teachers and sports teachers from Catholic primary schools in Kabale District chose to abstain from participating in the Uganda Primary Schools Sports Association (USSPA) elections, which were held at Kabale District Rukiiko Hall.

The decision was made due to religious tensions surrounding the allocation of seats for Anglican and Catholic representatives in the ongoing elections. Out of the 137 individuals present, only 67 cast their votes, with accusations leveled against the Anglican Church for securing all available seats.

Led by Pius Rwakimari, headteacher of Bugomora Primary School and former Kyanamira Sub County LC5 councilor, the group included 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.

They collectively walked out of the polling station, citing religious marginalization, despite initially requesting at least one-third of the seats. Ultimately, they decided to boycott the elections entirely.

Expressing his disappointment, Rwakimari stated their refusal to participate in the polls if Catholics were not granted their fair share of representation.

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

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.