Derrick A
The Rukungiri Taxi Owners, Drivers, and Conductors Cooperative Society members have dissolved the vetting committee established on April 24th, 2024, amidst allegations of collusion with the current association leadership and bribery issues.
Initially chaired by Eliab Christmas, with Innocent Benyogera and others as committee members, the committee faced accusations of bribery. Consequently, members took the matter to the RdC’s office, leading to the appointment of a new vetting committee by the Rukungiri municipality commercial officer.
The newly elected committee, headed by Bernard Tumwesigye, includes Devis Twinomugisha as the secretary and Charles Rukundo as a committee member. They oversee the election of nine board members and three supervisory committee members.
The registrar of cooperative societies, Robert Bariyo Barigye, instructed that none of the old association committee members should be reelected. However, Milton Kamusiime Hajji, a current board member, appealed to the registrar for another chance, which was granted based on his positive record.
Grace Tayebwa, the Rukungiri municipality principal commercial officer, emphasized the importance of maintaining confidentiality and urged the new vetting committee to safeguard the Sacco’s information.
Benard Tumwesigye Lutaya, the new chairperson, pledged to work with the committee members confidentially to fulfill their mandate of selecting capable leaders to investigate the issues within the Sacco.
The misunderstanding within the Sacco arose from allegations against Chairperson Silage Kabwende for neglecting responsibilities and displaying dictatorial behavior, including the failure to convene general meetings for six years.
Members interested in committee roles were instructed to apply through the vetting committee, with elections scheduled for June 24, 2024.
Before the meeting, tension rose as members demanded the sacco constitution from Chairperson Silage Kabwende, who initially refused but later complied upon the arrival of the municipal commercial officer.
The meeting was also attended by Able Mbowamukama, the new Rukungiri district OC traffic, who urged cooperation and cautioned against overspeeding for safety.
