Political analysts and residents in Hoima have aligned with President Yoweri Museveni's criticism of Bunyoro leaders, accusing them of failing to promote government livelihood programs effectively.
During a meeting with the region's leaders in Masindi on Friday, Museveni emphasized that the leaders have focused more on personal interests than on uniting for a common regional cause.
Museveni highlighted the leaders' lack of effort in sensitizing the population about government programs aimed at fighting poverty, stressing the need for a shift in priorities
. "You leaders in Bunyoro need to change your mindset. It’s about development and economic empowerment for the population. Let your focus be on transforming people economically, not just asking for water, electricity, and so on," he stated.
Locals in Hoima echoed the president's concerns, with many blaming regional leaders for pushing their own agendas during engagements with the president, such as securing employment for their relatives, instead of championing a united vision for Bunyoro.
Mustafa Kahuma, a Hoima resident, lamented the fragmentation among leaders from Kibaale, Kagadi, and Hoima districts.
"Each leader is pushing their own agenda. If they had united voices, the president would take the region more seriously," Kahuma said.
Political analyst Bbiira Kiwanuka Nassa agreed, advising that Bunyoro voters should carefully reflect on the leaders they elect.
"Bunyoro faces a crisis because there is no common agenda. Instead of advocating for better services, we embarrassingly ask for job appointments for our relatives," Kiwanuka remarked.
He further urged for a diversity of political representation, stating that NRM leaders often avoid openly challenging the president due to fear of being branded party rebels.
Kiwanuka criticized political leaders who, instead of delivering on development, only focus on maintaining their positions.
He called for more active leadership that advocates for the region’s interests rather than political self-interest.
Michael Christopher Ayeranga, NRM Bunyoro coordinator, acknowledged the president's efforts in initiating various government programs.
However, he noted that many leaders have become complacent, focusing on their positions instead of promoting programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM) and Emyooga.
Ayeranga suggested that stricter measures be taken against those who fail to embrace poverty alleviation initiatives.
"We need a law to hold individuals accountable for deliberately ignoring government programs aimed at lifting them out of poverty," he said.
Meanwhile, Hoima City Mayor Brian Kaboyo maintained that sensitization efforts are ongoing but pointed out that some individuals have intentionally refused to participate in the programs, while others have been swayed by misinformation.
Kaboyo called for a change in mindset among both leaders and the public, emphasizing the role of political, cultural, and religious leaders in ensuring that government programs achieve their intended impact.
"Without a shift in mindset, we may not reach the government’s poverty eradication targets," Kaboyo warned.
