Mbale, Uganda – Thousands of youths from the Bugisu region have threatened to stage a massive demonstration, marching from various directions to Malukhu to forcibly evict Umukuka III Jude Mike Mudoma, accusing him of illegally clinging to power long after his five-year term expired.
The youths, under groups such as the Bamasaba Concerned Youth, claim that Mudoma’s tenure as the cultural leader of the Bugisu (Bamasaba) people officially ended on October 6, 2025. They argue that despite this, he continues to occupy the position at the cultural headquarters in Malukhu, Mbale, while pushing for extensions or even a lifetime role, sparking widespread discontent.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the planned march aims to pressure Mudoma to step down and allow for the installation of a new Umukuka, following reports that some elders and clan leaders have already elected an alternative leader, Umukuka IV Mayatsa Joram Khambo from the Wanale clan.
The move has deepened the ongoing rift in the Bugisu Cultural Institution, with accusations of constitutional changes, name alterations from Inzu Ya Masaba to Bukuka Bwa Bugisu, and attempts to make the position hereditary.
Deepening Divisions:
The controversy dates back to Mudoma’s installation in October 2023. While some clan heads have praised his leadership for promoting development, stability, and projects like commercial agriculture and skills training for youths, critics—including elders and now a vocal youth bloc—accuse him of overstepping by seeking tenure extensions up to 15 years or life, and of sidelining traditional structures.
Mudoma has repeatedly dismissed replacement claims as “fake news,” reaffirming his legitimacy as the gazetted leader and stating that his term has remaining time or that extensions are justified for ongoing progress in Masaba Land.
His camp has called for calm and urged focus on development rather than division.
Recent reports from April 2026 highlight escalating tensions, including allegations of bribes to journalists and strong resistance from sections of the community against what they term an attempt to turn the Umukuka into a “life king.”
Youth Ultimatum and Planned Action:
The concerned youths have reportedly issued ultimatums and are mobilizing for a large-scale peaceful (but firm) march to Malukhu Cultural Headquarters.
Organizers say participants will converge from districts across Bugisu, including Mbale, Sironko, Bududa, Bulambuli, and Manafwa, demanding immediate handover and accountability.
Local leaders and security agencies are expected to monitor the situation closely to prevent any escalation into violence.
Police have in the past been called upon to address hate speech and maintain order amid the cultural disputes.
This latest development comes amid a broader power struggle that has seen rival factions, protests at cultural grounds, and public snubs of Mudoma-linked events.
As the situation unfolds, residents of Bugisu are calling for dialogue to preserve unity in the region.
The Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, which gazetted Mudoma, may be forced to intervene if the standoff intensifies.
Freeman News UG will continue to monitor and provide updates on this developing story.
Story By: Musamali Arnold
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