Loyce Biira Bwambale, the prime minister of Rwenzururu Kingdom has accused the Basongoro of igniting ethnic clashes with Bakonzo in Kasese district. She explains that the decision by the Basongoro to enthrone a parallel King, raise a flag and claim 20 out of the 29 sub counties in Kasese district marked a serious provocation against the Obusinga Bwa Rwenzururu Kingdom. On July 01, the Basongora installed Bwebale Ivan Rutakirwa Agutamba Rwigi 1V as the King of the Busongora Cultural Institution.
They also reclaimed Muhokya, Bugoye, Nyakatonzi, Katwe, Karusandara, Mubuku, Ibuga, Hamukungu, Kasenyi, Busunga, and Katunguru sub counties amongst others. But Bwambale says that the Rwenzururu Kingdom does not reorganize the cultural institution of the Basongora because it is within the boundaries of their Kingdom. She also accuses the Basongora of banning the Bakonzo in the 20 sub counties from practicing their culture, saying this would lead to tribal confrontations.
Bwambale advises the Basongora to follow the right procedures to air out their grievances instead of resorting to provocation which would have far reaching implications. She explains that the authority to create new administrative units lies with parliament and not individuals. Prince Christopher Kibanzanga, the brother to Charles Wesley Mumbere, the King of Rwenzururu Kingdom says what baffles members of the Bakonzo community is the failure by government to officially pronounce itself on the matter.
He warns that trying to favor one ethnic group against another may lead to serious problems since the Bakonzo are already armed with spears ready to defend themselves from any invasion. The statement by the duo comes days after a group of Bakonzo invaded Muhokya Sub County allegedly to kidnap Bwebale Ivan Rutakirwa Agutamba Rwigi 1V, the Basongora cultural leader but was repulsed by the police. Three attackers were shot dead by police to avenge the death of a cop who was stabbed by the attackers.
Agutamba Rwigi 1V has appealed to government for security saying that his life is in danger from further attacks. He claims that he and his subjects are living in fear of further violence. On Monday, Kale Kayihura, the Inspector General of Police said government cannot provide security to Atugamba because he is not a recognized cultural leader.
