MBALE, Uganda — Former Resident District Commissioners (RDCs) from Bugisu, led by former Deputy RDC Irene Manghali, have vowed to defend government-recognised cultural leadership in the sub-region and confront individuals they describe as cultural “masqueraders.”
The development was confirmed by the spokesperson of the Bugisu Cultural Institution, Steven Masiga.
Masiga said the cultural institution welcomes the support of former RDCs in safeguarding the authority of His Highness the Umukuka and the integrity of the institution.
Speaking in a representative capacity, Irene Manghali pledged to challenge any cultural leader operating in Bugisu without official gazettement. She alleged that some individuals are collaborating with questionable groups to create confusion in the region.
Manghali cited the example of individuals allegedly collecting money from members of the public in the name of establishing Mbale Public University.
“The university was promised by the President, and we cannot allow anyone to hide behind that initiative to extort hard-earned money from the Bamasaaba,” she said.
Masiga further revealed that the cultural institution had previously granted amnesty to individuals accused of violating cultural laws. He urged them to use the remaining time to surrender to lawful authorities and hand over any illegally acquired cultural paraphernalia and artefacts.
“Once they comply, they will be allowed to live peacefully within the community,” Masiga said.
He also warned politicians allegedly funding illegal cultural groups, stressing that cultural matters should be handled by recognised clan leadership structures rather than political actors.
“The custodians of cultural issues are clan chairpersons, not politicians of any shade,” he emphasised.
The renewed stance by former RDCs and cultural leaders signals escalating tensions over leadership and legitimacy within the Bugisu cultural space.
