EDITOR
Bushenyi-Ishaka Municipality’s council meeting on Monday nearly turned physical as councilors clashed over a financial dispute involving prominent businessman Hassan Bassajjabalaba.
The heated session, held in the municipal council hall, saw councilors led by Joel Nkore (Mazinga Ward) and Edwin Karugaba (Ntungamo Ward) accuse the executive, including Mayor Richard Byaruhanga and Speaker Evalist Mucunguzi, of failing to prioritize the interests of Bushenyi-Ishaka residents.
“We are frustrated with the mayor, the speaker, and the town’s administration. A recommendation was passed by the finance committee, requiring only a council resolution, yet we see delaying tactics here. What is your role as full-time employees of this municipality?” Mr. Nkore questioned.
The tension stemmed from a request by the finance committee, led by Juma Matovu (Ward Four, Ishaka Division), to reduce Bassajjabalaba’s debt to the municipality from UGX 78 million to UGX 30 million. The committee argued that it would be beneficial for the council to waive the entire amount due to the businessman’s contributions to local development.
Mr. Matovu accused Speaker Mucunguzi of failing to guide the council effectively, allegedly focusing on personal interests over public duty. “It’s a shame you’re only looking at UGX 30 million to share amongst yourselves instead of seeing the bigger picture. Remember, you hold these offices today, but what have you done for the people of Bushenyi-Ishaka?” he challenged.
Mayor Byaruhanga responded by urging the councilors to focus on decisions that add value to the municipality. He cautioned against granting financial waivers, noting that the Inspectorate of Government (IGG) would be reviewing municipal finances next month due to past allegations of misappropriated funds.
“As a municipality, we informed Bassajjabalaba of the debt owed, and he responded, committing to pay UGX 30 million. Where do councilors find the justification to waive it entirely when we are in dire need of local revenue?” he questioned.
Municipal Town Clerk Silvelio Mukobi Byarufu reiterated that waiving the debt entirely was infeasible, especially as councilors have frequently requested increases in their sitting allowances. “We need to respect the taxpayer’s position. Allowing this could affect our financial credibility and lobbying capacity,” he added.
The meeting was ultimately adjourned by Speaker Mucunguzi, who instructed councilors advocating for the waiver to have Bassajjabalaba submit a new letter clarifying his stance before any resolution could be passed.
“I am adjourning this council until further notice. Those pushing for the waiver must consult Mr. Bassajjabalaba and secure a letter retracting his commitment to pay UGX 30 million. Only then will we revisit the matter,” Mucunguzi ruled.
As councilors filed out of the hall, the debate over local governance and municipal finances remains unresolved.
