MP NDYOMUGYENYI FACES BACKLASH OVER DAMNING STATEMENT ON KIGEZI STRONGMEN

Ambrose Kweronda

KIGEZI

The Rukiga County Member of Parliament, Roland Ndyomugyenyi, is facing a backlash from the people of Kigezi for his statements criticizing former Prime Minister Ruhakana Rugunda, former Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi, along with Ministers Chris Baryomunsi, and David Bahati.

MP Roland Ndyomugyenyi (Bish) posted on social media early Sunday morning, that despite holding significant positions in government for a long time, these four leaders have done nothing for Kigezi.

He specifically called out the ICT Minister and NRM Vice Chairman, saying, “Ogwe nawe abeire embeho, you should have asked him why he did not deliver Kihanga computers which he pledged willingly.”

“We have been quiet for too long. People like Baryomunsi, who can’t contribute anything to Kigezi’s development, should be ejected,” said Bish.

Ndyomugyenyi’s statements drew sharp criticism from many Ugandans, particularly from Kigezi.

Hon. Ndyomugyenyi added that he only respects the State Minister of Finance and General Duties, Hon. Henry Musasizi Ariganyira, because he has secured more funds for Kigezi than former Prime Ministers Ruhakana Rugunda, John Patrick Amama Mbabazi, and the State Minister of Trade and Cooperatives, Hon. David Bahati, combined.

In response, Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi advised Ndyomugyenyi to focus on his responsibilities as an MP and allow others to perform their duties. He further suggested that Ndyomugyenyi should refrain from making such posts unless he is sober.

Economist and lawyer Patrick Katabazi was the first to respond, calling the statement reckless. He said, “Please don’t discredit the incredible legacy of Rt Hon Ruhakana and the great Rt Hon Amama Mbabazi. Hon Bahati has made and is making a contribution in many ways. Sweeping statements like these should not go unchallenged.”

Katabazi added, “You can’t combine Rt Hon Rugunda, Rt Hon Mbabazi, and Hon Bahati and dismiss them as inconsequential to Kigezi’s development. Only shallow minds would accept that.”

The Rukiga Deputy Residence District Commissioner, Mr. Zadoki Kamusime, stated, “We hold our current leaders in high esteem for their tireless efforts to serve their people and the entire nation. We shouldn’t forget the good works (quality service delivery) of our seniors like Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, Rt Hon Amama Mbabazi, Hon Stephan Bamwanga, Prof GW Kanyeihamba, Barisigara, Katarataambo, the late Robert Kitariiko, and many others. Let us continue building on the foundations laid by our predecessors. Remember, historically, the stone age science has progressively led the world to modern technology.”

Gaston Tumusime reacted by saying, “It’s very bad for a leader to discredit his fellows, especially those more senior than him. As leaders, we must understand communication skills, especially on public forums like this.”

Another Kigezi resident, Moses Akoragye, said, “The old leaders couldn’t have brought money to our region as expected, i.e., JPAM and Ndugu Rugunda, because these leaders have impeccable integrity and did a lot in legislating and connecting many dots. Corruption and greed were minimal compared to now. Today, whoever is given an office is there for God and their stomach. I don’t agree with Hon Bish on mentioning JPAM and Ndugu Rugunda. That should be criminal and treason. These gentlemen have been assets and remain relevant in Uganda, Africa, and the world.”

The International Community of Banyakigezi Chairperson, Mrs. Grace Mutebire, said, “With all the brains we’re endowed with, we can do better by appreciating the big and small contributions people make.

Mentoring and encouraging each other ensures we don’t face a leadership crisis in Kigezi. Our leaders from Kigezi, past and present, have left footprints that are benchmarks for upcoming leaders. Endless criticisms, backstabbing, selfishness, and working for personal gain will not help Kigezi.”