Tensions have escalated within the Inzu Ya Masaba cultural institution, as disagreements over traditional circumcision practices and cultural leadership have come to a head.
The controversy centers on the circumcision festival scheduled to begin on August 28th, with disputes arising between the Culture Council, led by Chairman Omar Busaule Njofu, and the recently formed Culture Board. The conflict has caused significant disruptions in preparations, with accusations of financial mismanagement and cultural interference.
Chairman Njofu expressed frustration over the Culture Board’s interference, stating, “The Culture Board has disrupted our preparations, taking over matters without proper authorization.
This has caused delays and confusion among the clans.” He further accused the board of financial mismanagement, highlighting the disappearance of 300 million Ugandan Shillings and 33 cows earmarked for the festival.
The Speaker of the Culture Council, Andrew Gumali, echoed Njofu’s concerns, calling on the Office of the President to intervene. “Our cultural heritage is at stake, and we need unity and consensus to move forward,” he said.
Gumali has voiced strong objections to the new committee's involvement, stating that they are disrupting traditional norms. "The new committee, which includes individuals from the Sabine community, has imposed changes that go against our traditions.
We have long opposed practices like the circumcision of girls, but these intruders could push their agenda with time to come since they are allowed on the newly formed committee ," Gumali said.
The situation has raised fears of a repeat of the 1969 conflict, which resulted in significant bloodshed and long-lasting divisions within the community. "We are scared of history repeating itself.
We are reminded of the 1969 war, and we want to avoid such bloodshed. The people who are pushing these changes are the same ones we disagreed with back then," Gumali warned.
He emphasized that the community is striving to prevent such an outcome. "We do not want another Omumbere saga. We want peace and respect for our cultural heritage."
As the circumcision ceremonies draw near, the Imasaba community is urgently calling for presidential intervention to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control. "The peace we have enjoyed is at risk, and we need immediate action to ensure that our cultural practices are respected and upheld," Andrew concluded.