Tensions flared in Kisoro district on Sunday, March 30, 2025, as Members of Parliament clashed with Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa during his visit to the region.
Tayebwa, who was the chief guest at the restoration launch ceremony of St. Mary’s Mutorele Parish Church, faced criticism from local legislators over governance and service delivery issues.
Bufumbira North MP John Nizeyimana Kamara openly challenged Tayebwa’s call for unity among leaders, arguing that the real issue hindering development in Kisoro was not sectarianism but selfishness among certain individuals.
“Last week, you came to Kisoro knowing that our leaders are being accused of division based on sectarianism, which is not the case. The real problem is selfishness, and because of that, Kisoro will not develop. Honourable Speaker, you have also failed to accelerate the payment of tea farmers, affecting their livelihoods. I hope the Minister of Finance (General Duties), Henry Ariganyira Musasizi, is listening,” Kamara stated.
Similarly, Bukimbiri County MP Eddie Kwizera Wagahungu accused the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) government of exaggerating its achievements. He pointed to the unfulfilled promise of tarmacking the Mutolere-Nyakabande road as a prime example of the government’s failure.
“I may be just a humble boy, but I have the power of the people. I have served as an MP here before, and my people know me well. Honourable Speaker, the President falsely claimed that the Mutolere-Nyakabande road was tarmacked. Is that what you call tarmac? If General Kale Kayihura can write to the President and get a response within a week, why can’t he write another letter to inform him about this road?” Kwizera questioned.
In response, Tayebwa urged Kisoro MPs to recognize the services the NRM government has delivered, stressing that leaders must actively participate in parliamentary debates to lobby for development projects.
He assured the legislators that the construction of the Mutolere-Nyakabande road would begin soon, adding that the matter would be brought to the attention of Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala for urgent action.
“I appeal to MPs from Kisoro not to place all the blame on the President. Every public project is first discussed in Parliament. Why don’t you attend parliamentary sessions, unite, and actively participate in debates? How can you expect the President to come and personally construct a ten-kilometer road for you?” Tayebwa argued.
