NRM Ministers' Tour Uncovers Deep Divisions in Masaka

An official inspection tour led by the Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara, and his deputy, Justine Nameere, meant to evaluate government programs in the Greater Masaka region, has brought to light simmering tensions within the National Resistance Movement (NRM) party. Instead of focusing solely on service delivery, a public meeting in Masaka City became a platform for long-standing disagreements to surface.

A Masaka businesswoman publicly accused Ms. Nameere of owing over Shs150 million for coffee seedlings supplied during the minister’s election campaign. While Ms. Nameere denied direct responsibility, attributing the procurement to others including the Masaka City NRM chairperson, Rogers Buregeya, the allegations quickly overshadowed the official agenda. This incident has been described by political analysts as indicative of deeper party conflicts stemming from NRM primaries and factionalism that emerged after the last general elections.

Further complicating matters, residents in Rakai District raised accusations against former Defence Minister Vincent Ssempijja, Ms. Nameere’s father, regarding alleged attempts to evict hundreds of households from disputed land. Minister Barugahara reportedly intervened in both situations, facilitating the resolution of the financial dispute and urging a halt to the planned evictions.

Despite these controversies, Minister Barugahara emphasized the importance of dialogue for resolving internal misunderstandings, noting that the NRM has capable leaders in the region. The incidents highlight the challenges the NRM faces in consolidating its recent electoral gains in Masaka, a region historically dominated by the opposition, as internal rivalries threaten to undermine progress.

Political observers suggest these local disputes reflect a broader power struggle within the ruling party. While the NRM has improved its electoral performance in Masaka, securing numerous local and parliamentary seats, the success of these gains hinges on overcoming internal discord.