By Flavia Ajok
The Conservative Party presidential candidate, Joseph Mabirizi, has called on the people of Kikuube and Kagadi districts in the Bunyoro sub-region to support the federal system of governance, saying it will improve service delivery. Speaking at a rally in Kikuube Town Council, Mabirizi described federalism as “crucial and fundamental” in ensuring equal sharing of the national cake.
He argued that Uganda continues to experience selective development because leaders remain divided on the question of federal governance. Mabirizi said that under his government, taxes collected in each region would be retained in regional treasuries and allocated locally to promote development. He noted that this system would allow regions like Bunyoro to channel resources directly into schools, health facilities, and roads.
The candidate also pledged to increase the oil share and royalties to the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom and to advocate for more jobs for Banyoro in the oil and gas sector. He promised to prioritize the fight against corruption, cut administrative costs, and reduce the number of Members of Parliament.
On agriculture, Mabirizi pledged to allocate more funding to the sector, saying it would transform household incomes since the majority of Ugandans depend on farming. He further revealed that his campaign program in Hoima City was disrupted by police, who denied him access to Booma Grounds because it was under construction by the UPDF.
Mabirizi also vowed that in his first 100 days as president, he would free all political prisoners. “All the NUP supporters and other supporters of political parties who are currently in prison will be released,” he said.
Ken Lukyamuzi, the Conservative Party President General, appealed to the people of Bunyoro to support their candidate, saying the party has a “good agenda” for Uganda.
Lukyamuzi stressed that federalism would allow regions such as Bunyoro to fully benefit from oil and gas resources rather than relying on royalties. He also criticized government overspending on administration, which he said diverts resources from essential services. Lukyamuzi urged Bunyoro residents to voice their grievances, including the lack of a university, persistent land disputes, and poor healthcare, assuring them that the party has concrete plans to address these concerns.
During the rally, Joyce Birungi, a resident of Kikuube, asked Mabirizi to address rampant land grabbing in the region if elected president. Another resident, Benard Ainabyoona, said Mabirizi must ensure corruption is tackled if Ugandans are to benefit from effective service delivery.
