Inzu Ya Masaaba's Eric Mukhana Accuses Umukuuka Mudoma For Registering Government Donated Cars To The Institution Into His Names & Other Irregularities

By Our Staff Reporter

March 13, 2026-Leaders in the Inzu Ya Masaaba have issued a strong statement warning of what they describe as an attempt to undermine the cultural leadership and heritage of the Bamasaba people.

In an official press statement released on March 12, 2026, the Minister of Information Technology and Global Partnerships of Inzu Ya Masaaba, Eric S. Mukhwana, accused a small group of individuals of attempting to take control of the Bamasaba cultural institution.

The statement alleges that the group, led by Jude Mike Mudoma, is trying to replace the historical Inzu Ya Masaaba institution with what it calls the “Umukuuka Wa Bugisu Kingdom.” According to the minister, this move could divide the Bamasaba community both in Uganda and in the diaspora.

Mukhwana said the alleged changes include attempts to alter the identity and symbols of the cultural institution, including replacing traditional emblems associated with the Bamasaba culture. He also claimed that there were efforts to change the official language writing system from Lumasaba to another dialect, which he says could sideline the majority of Bamasaba speakers.

The minister further alleged that some assets donated by the government to support institutional work were registered under private individuals. He said the matter raises concerns about accountability and the management of community property.

The statement also questioned the legitimacy of the leadership of the new structure being promoted by the group. According to Mukhwana, the Bamasaba community recognizes Joram Mayatsa Humboson as the rightful Umukuuka VI under the Inzu Ya Masaaba cultural institution.

He noted that earlier attempts at mediation involving Isabaruuli Mwogezi Butamanya II, who chairs the council of cultural leaders in Uganda, did not resolve the dispute.

Mukhwana called on Bamasaba leaders, elders, students, and members of the diaspora to remain united and protect their cultural heritage. He urged community members to avoid gatherings organized by those he accused of undermining the institution.

“We are calling on all sons and daughters of Masaabaland to stand together and defend the legacy of our ancestors and the cultural institution they built,” the statement said.

The minister also warned that individuals involved in activities that weaken the institution may be publicly named as part of what he described as a “wall of shame.”

The dispute highlights growing tensions over cultural leadership and identity among the Bamasaba people, whose traditional institution, Inzu Ya Masaaba, represents millions of people mainly in eastern Uganda and parts of Kenya.

Observers say the issue may require dialogue among community leaders and government cultural authorities to avoid further divisions within the Bamasaba community.