Alice K
The Kabarole District Chairperson, Richard Rwabuhinga, has weighed in on the leadership dispute within the Rwenzori Katebwa Civilian War Veterans Association.
The Controversy
The controversy revolves around John Kinuge, who claims to be the chairperson, and his alleged attempts to control both Fort Portal City and Kabarole District. This has led to a significant portion of Kabarole district members disagreeing with Kinuge and forming their own association, the Rwenzori Katebwa Civilian War Veterans Association (Kabarole).
During the 1st annual general meeting of Rwenzori Katebwa Civilian War Veterans (Kabarole) held at the district headquarters in Kitumba, Fort Portal City, Rwabuhinga emphasized the importance of respecting boundaries. He noted that the Ugandan government encourages decentralization and called for the recognition of Kabarole’s independence.
Rwabuhinga also urged the city leadership to refrain from managing the Kyabanyaga project and suggested that the police and UPDF take charge of security matters. The Kabarole Chairperson, Col. Jacob Asiimwe, the Special Presidential Assistant on Veterans Affairs, to intervene in the dispute.
Veterans urged to strategically position themselves for Govt programs
Rwabuhinga, advised veterans to organize themselves into groups to benefit from government programs such as PDM, WEP, Emyoga, and youth livelihood programs.
Julius Turyasingura, the chairperson of Rwenzori Katebwa Civilian War Veterans Association (Kabarole), explained that the reason for breaking away from the main association was the lack of accountability to the general assembly.
He cited issues such as the cancellation of members who offered advice, the operation of two different governments in one office, and others.
Turyasingura highlighted the challenges faced by the new association, including financial support, low income, and lack of office equipment. He expressed the goal of establishing income-generating activities, promoting SACCOs in the district, and promoting the Kyabanyaga project.
He appealed to the government to intervene and enable Kabarole veterans to receive gratuity.
