Bugisu Cultural Institution Warns Masqueraders, Diaspora Opposition Against Undermining Government Projects

By Our Reporter

Mbale City, Uganda

The Bugisu Cultural Institution has warned against attempts by individuals and groups allegedly using cultural platforms to undermine ongoing and planned government projects in the Bugisu sub-region.

Speaking to this publication in Mbale City, the institution’s spokesperson, Steven Masiga, cautioned a section of the Bamasaaba community against what he described as subversive activities being carried out under the guise of advocating for a public university in the region.

Masiga said a group is exploiting delays in the establishment of a government-funded public university for Bugisu to launch a fundraising drive, reportedly seeking about Shs2 billion from members of the community to “kick-start” the institution.

He clarified that the group in question is illegal and does not recognize the leadership of Umukuka III, His Highness Jude Mike Mudoma, adding that the matter has been reported to police.

“This group is opposed to the legitimate leadership of Umukuka III, and we have already alerted the police about their conduct,” Masiga said.

According to Masiga, the idea of a public university for Bugisu was formally presented by regional leaders during a meeting with President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in Kapchorwa several years ago, where the President agreed to support the establishment of the institution.

He further revealed that in early November, Umukuka III led a delegation—including the Bugisu Cultural Institution Prime Minister, Dr Paul Mwambu, and himself—to meet the President, during which the President reaffirmed that the university would commence “any time.”

“With this assurance from the President, we cannot sit back and allow some elements to solicit money from people under false pretences,” Masiga said.

He alleged that some opposition supporters, including members of NUP and UPC based abroad—particularly in Canada—have pledged to support the disputed fundraising drive, which he said is intended to destabilize the region and challenge legitimate cultural leadership.

Masiga emphasized that establishing a university requires vast resources, including large tracts of land and several billions of shillings, as guided by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE).

“What is Shs2 billion when it comes to starting a university?” he asked. “Government planning and budgeting is the proper path.”

He warned against accepting what he termed “illicit funds from wrong elements,” noting that the establishment of a public university is part of equitable national development and should follow official government procedures.

Masiga also dismissed claims by individuals masquerading as cultural leaders, insisting that Bugisu can only have one Umukuka.

“No one should seek attention or legitimacy using Bugisu. A legitimate Umukuka operates from an officially recognized office provided by local governments,” he said.

He commended local governments in Bugisu for distancing themselves from what he described as false claims of leadership.

Masiga further revealed that over 300 clan chairpersons have recently denounced the individual accused of disrupting peace in Bugisu, vowing to take cultural action against him.