Bugiri residents task new MPs on collapsing market, roads, floods

As Bugiri Municipality swears in a new set of leaders, residents say they’re done with promises. Their message is simple: fix the market, clear the drains, repair the roads, and stop the garbage piling up.

“We are happy that the NRM party took over almost all elective positions in Bugiri Municipality. As leaders in power, we must deliver to the people’s expectations if we want to retain our positions,” said Saidi Kagere, NRM chairperson for Bugiri Municipality.

Kagere said poor road maintenance and alleged misuse of government funds remain top concerns heading into the new term.

“Issues of theft of government money and the poor road network are still big challenges as we enter the new political term. However, as residents, we are ready to work with our leaders to improve household incomes and fight corruption,” he said.

The stalled construction of Bugiri Central Market sits high on the list. Traders say the facility is overcrowded, unsanitary, and a disaster waiting to happen.

“The two pit latrines we have been using are already full and some people have resorted to using polythene bags to ease themselves,” said Badiru Kilego, chairperson of the Bugiri Central Market Traders Association.

He said the problem worsened after traders operating outside the market were evicted, increasing congestion and the risk of fire and disease outbreaks.

“We are working under threats because anything can happen at any time, including fire or disease outbreaks. We need immediate intervention,” Kilego said.

Bugiri Central Market is one of the municipality’s main sources of local revenue, making the neglect even more frustrating for vendors.

Mayor Ayubu Kisubi Mulikiliza said new pit latrines are already planned for the 2026/2027 budget.

“We received all the complaints from Bugiri Central Market and we are working around the clock to ensure the issues are addressed as soon as funds are released by the central government,” he said.

Newly elected MP John Francis Oketcho pledged to take the market issue to Parliament when the House sits.

“I am also an entrepreneur and I understand these challenges. I will engage the line ministry on the construction of Bugiri Central Market soon after the new ministers are appointed,” Oketcho said.

He also appealed for unity across political lines. “I know some of you supported my brother Basalirwa and other candidates, but do not fear to approach me for services because we are all residents of this area.”

Bugiri District Woman MP Eunice Namatende said she would focus on women and vulnerable groups, particularly single mothers running small businesses under the GROW project.

“Single mothers are among the vulnerable people who need support because of the responsibilities they carry. Some lost their partners while others were abandoned,” she said.

NRM National Treasurer Barbara Nekesa Oundo warned leaders against misusing public funds, saying monitoring of government projects would be tightened this term.

“Some leaders connive with civil servants to embezzle government funds, but this time we are putting emphasis on monitoring all government projects to ensure our pledges are fulfilled,” Nekesa said.

She thanked residents for voting overwhelmingly for President Yoweri Museveni and urged leaders to put aside divisive politics and focus on service delivery.

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