Corruption, power struggles uncovered at Mbarara City RCC handover ceremony

The handover ceremony for the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) office in Mbarara City has exposed deep-rooted issues of corruption and an ongoing power struggle over a key government building.

Lt. Col. James Mwesigye, the outgoing RCC, highlighted how the building, which houses the District Internal Security Office (DISO), Regional Prisons Office, Regional Internal Security Office (ISO), Citizenship and Immigration Office, UPDF 2nd Division Liaison Office, and the Mbarara District Service Commission, has been the center of a battle between the Mbarara District Local Government and Mbarara City.

The Office of the President has made significant efforts to retain control of the building.

For years, the Mbarara District has been vying for ownership of the building, claiming it should fall under its jurisdiction.

Mwesigye, however, has opposed this, emphasizing the building's critical importance to national security and governance and insisting it remain under the city's control.

"The district even asked for the title, but I have informed headquarters to ensure we retain full control of this building," Mwesigye said, highlighting the political conflict that has marked his tenure.

This dispute goes beyond property rights, reflecting deeper governance and control issues.

Mwesigye pointed out that the building not only houses his office but also other key government offices crucial to security and administration in the region.

A seemingly minor but symbolic issue causing tension is the shared water meter for the building.

Despite multiple government offices using the utilities, Mwesigye revealed that the Office of the President has been solely responsible for the expenses.

Corruption has been another significant challenge during Mwesigye’s tenure.

"We are now in a phase of fighting corruption. It used to be very high, but it has now decreased," he stated.

However, he acknowledged that corruption remains a significant problem, noting ongoing cases involving two commercial officers and three members of the City Service Commission, which have hampered development efforts in the city. These cases are still in court, seeking justice in the fight against corruption.

As Mwesigye handed over office to his successor, Catherine Kamwine, the unresolved power struggle over the building and the fight against corruption were prominent challenges awaiting her attention.

He urged Kamwine to continue the battle against corruption to ensure the success of government projects.

Kamwine steps into a highly politicized environment, where governance and resource management issues threaten to derail key government initiatives.

However, with promises of support from key figures like Mbarara City Mayor Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi, Kamwine is expected to continue the fight for control of the building, eradicate corruption in Mbarara City, and elevate the city's status to the top in the country.