Fort Portal City authorities are calling for the immediate transfer of Resident City Commissioner (RCC) Hellen Kamwine and her deputies following a heated confrontation between Mayor Edson Asaba Ruyonga and Deputy RCC Andrew Ntange.
The incident occurred during a joint monitoring field visit at Ibale Primary School, where Mayor Ruyonga insisted on the replacement of softwood doors with hardwood ones in a construction project. Deputy RCC Ntange challenged Ruyonga’s authority, leading to a bitter exchange of words.
In a subsequent press briefing, city leaders appealed for an overhaul of human resources in the office of the President, citing influence peddling and a lack of respect for local leaders. Mayor Ruyonga provided evidence of collusion between city technocrats and the RCC’s office, alleging illegal activities.
Fort Portal North Division Mayor Joseph Mshuhuko condemned the actions of the Deputy RCC and emphasized the need for immediate change, citing integrity issues. City executive member Prosper Businge criticized the RCC’s office for allegedly supporting illegal activities and failing to implement council resolutions.
Margret Kabajwara, a female youth councilor, denounced the Deputy RCC’s tolerance of substandard work and announced the city council’s decision not to engage with the presidency until the current occupants are transferred.
Jorum Kinuge, the secretary for works, criticized the RCC’s office for remaining silent on shoddy work, highlighting issues with constructed pit latrines.
In response, Deputy RCC Ntange denied assaulting the Mayor but stated he called for calmness after the altercation.