As the Local Government elections draw near, residents of Jinja district are rallying behind Abdallah Suta to unseat the incumbent LC5 chairman, Moses Batwala.
The move is seen as a vote of no confidence in Batwala’s leadership, with many citing his abrasive and confrontational style as a major turn-off. It seems that Batwala has forgotten that with great power comes great responsibility, and his actions have fallen short of the expectations of the people he is supposed to serve.
The just concluded parliamentary elections on January 15, which saw the ousting of several high-profile politicians, including cabinet ministers, have emboldened Jinja residents to demand change.
The election of Peace Tibyaze as the Jinja District Woman MP on the NRM ticket has also energized the electorate to rally behind Suta apparently to politically revenge against Batwala.
In a stunning upset, Peace Tibyaze the daughter of Mzee Francis Samanya, a sugarcane grower from Busedde sub county has shattered the mold of Jinja’s toxic politics, marked by blackmail, clique formation and intrigue to emerge victorious in a fiercely contested election.
Tibyaze’s message of peace (as the name suggests) and unity aligned with the people who seem eager for a new era of leadership in the district where they call their only home.
A Leadership Crisis.
Residents have accused Batwala of failing to deliver on his campaign promises, including the completion of the district headquarters. The project, which was started during the reign of former LC5 chairman Titus Kisambira, has stalled, and Batwala is now asking for votes to complete it.
“…It’s time to vote in a person of integrity, a true leader as opposed to a manipulator and a populist who uses sentiments and drama to appear to be working,” said Paul Mukova, a resident of Buwenge Town Council.
The Bulldozer Metaphor.
Batwala’s self-proclaimed moniker as a “bulldozer” has come back to haunt him. Many residents are now demanding that he step aside and make way for a more polished leader like Abdallah Suta, who they believe can bring about positive change.
“…Bulldozers are meant for rough terrain, and that’s exactly what Batwala is good at – fighting and using propaganda and populism to confuse the populace…,” said a senior resident.
He added, “…We need a leader who can drive the district forward with finesse and sophistication, not someone who is stuck in the rough….”
Former Speaker Speaks Out.
Former Jinja District speaker and a seasoned politician with a strong track record Michael Nyende Musana has also joined the chorus of critics calling for Batwala’s ouster.
Musana, who served as Speaker when Batwala was the Vice chairperson says he is ashamed to be associated with Batwala’s leadership style and is determined to ensure that the “bulldozer” is put in its right place.
“…I am always ashamed to introduce myself as a resident under Batwala’s leadership, he is a bulldozer who is more interested in fighting and causing chaos than in serving the people. It’s time for a change, and I’m determined to see Batwala out of office…”
Allegations of Corruption.
The alleged sale of jobs in the district has also sparked outrage, with parents and guardians claiming they are being forced to sell assets to secure employment. Batwala has denied the allegations, but the issue remains a major concern for residents.
“…We want a new leader who will restore peace and harmony in the district, where the political leaders work together with the technical wing…,” said Jacob Batambuze, a resident of Buwenge Town Council.
