Story by Obed Kankiriho
Elders in Kabale District have accused Kigezi parliamentary and local leaders of deliberately hindering the operationalization of Kabale Tourism City. The accusations were made during a meeting of the Kabale District Elders Forum, held today at the Kabale Municipality Main Hall. The forum, which included elders from Kabale and Rubanda districts, voiced frustration over the prolonged delay in the city’s establishment.
Dr. Francis Runumi, a former Kabale District LC5 Chairman, led the charge, claiming that political leaders in the region are prioritizing personal political interests and boundary disputes over the development of the area. Runumi alleged that some Members of Parliament are resisting the city’s creation because it could diminish their political influence and impact their past campaign investments.
Runumi also pointed a finger at Kabale District Chairman Nelson Nshangabashaija, accusing him of routinely delegating his deputy to represent him at meetings, in an apparent attempt to avoid publicly opposing the city’s establishment.
Maj. Gen. Sabiiti Timothy Mutebiile, Chairperson of the Kabale District Elders Forum, echoed these concerns. He stressed the need for a tourism city free from political, religious, and sector-based biases, which he argued are crucial for the region’s development. Mutebiile also criticized local Kigezi politicians for what he called their self-centeredness, which he believes has severely delayed the city’s realization.
However, State Minister of Finance Henry Musasizi provided a counterpoint last month. He explained that the Cabinet had decided on December 16, 2024, to halt the creation of new administrative units, citing the significant financial burden they would impose. Musasizi argued that the available resources should instead be allocated to pressing priorities such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation through initiatives like the Parish Development Model.
The Minister also noted that even existing cities and municipalities are struggling with limited funding, operating under outdated budget frameworks that were set long before their elevation to city status.
The debate over Kabale Tourism City highlights a growing divide between regional aspirations for development and the challenges posed by financial constraints and political dynamics.
ENDS.