RUKIGA, UGANDA – The race for the Rukiga District LC V Chairperson seat has intensified following starkly contrasting policy declarations from two leading candidates, sparking a public debate on economic regulation, employment, and inclusive leadership.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The heated controversy emerged after the National Resistance Movement (NRM) flag bearer, Simon Mutebi Rwamagyenda, declared his intention to crack down on bar operations and overhaul the district’s hiring practices if elected.
Rwamagyenda pledged to arrest bar owners and patrons found operating or drinking in bars before 2:00 p.m., citing a need for greater societal productivity and order.
“We cannot have a productive district when people are drinking during work hours. In my term of office, I will not allow this to happen. People must stay focused on work because drinking hinders the development of our Rukiga district,” Rwamagyenda stated.
Contrary to a merit-based system, Simon pledged that district hiring would be driven by where individual comes from, undermining the official role of the District Service Commission.
Meanwhile, Hon. Michael Kwarikunda Mbareba, the independent candidate for the same seat, issued a robust critique of his rival’s platform, describing the proposals as draconian and economically damaging.
Mbareba criticized the proposed bar crackdown as “unrealistic and economically harmful,” warning it would devastate small businesses, trigger significant job losses, and slash crucial local tax revenue.
“Leadership should be about inclusion and creating opportunities, not about promoting restrictive policies that stifle small businesses and punish residents,” Mbareba asserted.
He stressed that a leader’s focus must be on serving all residents comprehensively, fostering an environment where both enterprise and community welfare can thrive.
Mbareba also countered the perception that an independent candidate is less capable, arguing that political independence does not hinder effective leadership and citing examples of successful independent officials elsewhere.
The debate has crystallized the choice before Rukiga voters: a platform promising strict regulatory enforcement and institutional reform versus one advocating for inclusive, economically-conscious, and participatory governance.
As the campaigns enter their final phase, the residents’ decision will hinge on which vision they believe will best foster prosperity and unity for the district.
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