Opposition leaders in Kasese have petitioned the LC V chairman to halt the proposed split of the district into three administrative units to allow for further consultations. On October 26, 2010; the district council passed a resolution to split Kasese to create Rwenzori and Bwera districts. The resolution was passed over to the local government’s minister for consideration.
Yesterday, FDC leaders in Kasese led by their chairman Saulo Mate petitioned the newly sworn in LC V chairman Rtd Lt Col Mawa Muhindo calling for further consultations. In their petition signed by over 30 residents, the leaders challenge the level of consultations by the last council saying that those pushing for the split ignored advice from the local government minister.
They also say that the opinions of opposition councilors and the Omusinga Charles Wesley Mumbere Iremangoma on the matter were ignored during the council discussion on the matter. Saulo Maate says that demarcation and boundaries of the three districts were purely done on partisan grounds.
He quotes recommendation five in he memorandum which reads that “the split will help NRM to mobilize for its mandate”. The FDC leaders argue that sensitization meetings should be conducted with a view of creating awareness about the likely benefits as regards splitting the district and that a referendum for purposes of participation is considered before the president pronounces himself on the matter.
Mawa Muhindo has acknowledged receipt of the petition from the FDC adding that they have a right to air out their views on the matter. Mawa says that opposition supporters in the district need to be given a consultative ear to generate consensus adding that they are stakeholders in issues affecting the district.
