A simmering conflict in Busia Municipality has erupted into a full-blown row, pitting the area’s town clerk, Ronald Baganza, against LCs 1 and 2 chairpersons and their committees. The dispute has escalated to the point where local leaders from the 24 villages and five parishes in Busia town are boycotting mobilization meetings related to government development programs convened by the town clerk’s office.
The origins of the conflict date back to last year when LC2 chairpersons sought information about their allowances from the Parish Development Model (PDM) program. Baganza’s reported refusal to recognize or collaborate with the LCs led to an altercation, sparking tensions that have persisted. The chairpersons have accused Baganza of hindering service delivery and impeding the progress of National Resistance Movement party programs in the area.
George Barasa, chairperson of Busia Municipality LCs 1 and 2 Chairperson’s Association, formally reported the strained relationship between local leaders and the town clerk during a meeting with Busia Resident District Commissioner Michael Kibwika in South West Parish. Barasa revealed that attempts to address the issue with Baganza were met with similar disregard, amplifying the frustration among the LCs.
The chairpersons, in their plea to Kibwika, requested the intervention of the local government ministry to facilitate the transfer of Baganza. They argued that his alleged failure to collaborate with local leaders was impeding their access to essential information, negatively impacting their ability to serve their constituents effectively.
Mangeni Waacha, the chairperson of North ‘A’ Parish, emphasized the need for a town clerk who respects local leaders, citing the importance of a conducive working relationship. Susan Wandera, the deputy mayor, refrained from commenting directly but confirmed awareness of chairpersons’ grievances against Baganza, suggesting that the issue is significant within the municipality.
During the meeting, Kibwika urged Baganza to reconsider his attitude towards the LCs, emphasizing the importance of fostering a collaborative environment. He assured the leaders that he would organize a meeting to reconcile the warring parties, emphasizing the need for a resolution that benefits the community.
Notably absent from the meeting, Baganza, when contacted, chose not to address the allegations raised by the LC chairpersons. Amos Egessa, the chairperson of North B’ parish, conveyed Baganza’s purported remorse and attempts to initiate communication for a reconciliatory meeting.
