Staff Reporter
The commissioning of Kihihi Primary School in Kanungu District has faced unexpected controversy following a series of disputes between local officials. The disagreement centers around the quality of construction work on a multipurpose block, which was contracted for Sh. 191 million.
The conflict began when Gad Rugaaju, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC), highlighted several issues with the building’s construction, including defects in the doors, floors, and padlocks. These concerns were corroborated by Kinkizi West MP Hon. James Kaberuka, who was present at the school.
Both Rugaaju and Kaberuka subsequently consulted with the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) and the district’s internal auditor. Their findings led to a decision to halt the commissioning ceremony.
As of now, the school has paid Sh. 150 million of the contracted amount, with the payment authorized by the head teacher, Tukamusherura James, and approved by the CAO and the district engineer. Rugaaju and Kaberuka have accused the district engineer of possibly colluding with ENOTU Construction Company Limited, the firm responsible for the multipurpose block.
The building was intended for use in examinations, meetings, and classes. Head teacher Tukamusherura James expressed disappointment, having hoped to unveil a high-quality facility to the attending guests.
Deputy Chief Administrative Officer Mutahakana Gertrude has advised that the contractor be given two weeks to address and rectify the identified defects. Notably, several leaders, including Kenneth Tumuhamye, the Secretary for Social Services, the district internal auditor, female district councillor Rukia Mbabazi, and Rutazaana Silver, the Kambuga District Councillor for Kambuga Sub County, disagreed with the commissioning.
Despite the controversy, many attendees were initially unaware of the alleged construction issues and were surprised to learn about the defects only after the concerns were raised by Rugaaju and Kaberuka.
