MUGABE R
Residents of Nyampikye Village in Kigaaga Ward, Southern Division, and Rugunda Cell in Nyakinengo Parish, Nyakagyeme Sub County, Rukungiri District, on Thursday, 9th January 2024, protested by opening up their bridge and abandoning it for the district to renovate.
The bridge, located near Rwendahi Church of Uganda at the boundary of Kigaaga Ward and Nyakinengo Parish, is along the Rukungiri–Kanungu main road via the Birara boundary bridge.
Residents accused their area Members of Parliament, including Hon. Minister Jim Muhwezi and Hon. Midius Natukunda Kaharata, of neglecting service delivery. They decided to protest, open up the bridge, and leave it for renovation as a way to demand accountability.
One by one, residents expressed their grievances, criticizing their legislators for failing to address essential services such as road networks, water coverage, and electricity. They vowed to hold them accountable during the next general elections in 2026.
Deus Karekaho, the Chairperson LC1 Rugunda Cell, commended his subjects for their enthusiasm in opening up the bridge and its drainage channels. He urged them to continue demanding accountability as voters.
Gard Babukobekire, the Chairperson LC1 Nyakiziba Cell, welcomed the members participating in the activity, which was driven by the poor and slippery condition of the road along the bridge despite fruitless petitions.
Fred Karamuzi, the Kigaaga Parish Councilor, noted that the protest was a result of broken hearts. He called on the district authorities to swiftly plan for the renovation, emphasizing the paralyzed transport in the area due to the lack of an alternative road.
Godson Mubangizi, the Chairperson LC3 Nyakagyeme Sub County, assured residents that efforts would be made to petition district authorities for quicker renovation. He warned that beyond next Thursday, complaints could escalate to a demonstration.
Noah Nasasira Rwakiseeta acknowledged the refreshment support provided by Frank Rukanurwa and praised his public voluntary contributions towards the development of Rujumbura County.
