Bugisu Cultural Leadership Dispute Heads to Mediation

A high-level mediation has begun in Mbale, bringing together rival factions of the Bugisu cultural institution to address a long-standing leadership dispute. This marks a significant moment as the parties meet peacefully to seek an amicable resolution outside of court regarding the contested leadership of Umukuka Jude Mike Mudoma.

The mediation is spearheaded by a distinguished panel, including Deputy Chief Justice Emeritus Richard Buteera, Solicitor General Emeritus Francis Atoke, Uganda Law Society President Emeritus Francis Gimara, and Andrew Khaukha, Head of Alternative Dispute Resolution. Justice Buteera opened the proceedings by setting clear ground rules, emphasizing respect, active listening, and flexibility, while clarifying that the panel acts as facilitators, not judges.

He commended both sides for their willingness to engage in mediation, highlighting its advantages over protracted litigation in terms of cost, time, and preserving relationships within the community. “In litigation, judges hear the cases and make a decision for you. The judge declares a winner, and the winner takes it all,” Buteera explained, urging the parties to focus on restoring unity.

Lawyers representing the opposing sides presented their clients’ positions. One faction, represented by Eddie Nangulu, seeks the restoration of the original Inzu Ya Masaba constitution, the rotational leadership system, Mudoma’s departure due to an expired term, and a transition to the Wanale Clan leadership. They stressed the need to restore the constitution as the foundation of institutional integrity.

Conversely, lawyers representing Mudoma maintain his lawful occupancy of the office, citing government recognition under the Institution of Traditional or Cultural Leaders Act. They argue that parts of the Inzu Ya Masaba constitution conflict with national law and that the dispute involves broader succession issues beyond Mudoma, suggesting a need to first address the legal framework for succession.

Following these submissions, the panel initiated separate closed-door meetings with each faction, excluding lawyers to foster open dialogue. This mediation is seen as a crucial effort to unite the Bugisu cultural institution, which has been fractured by years of legal battles and competing claims to the Umukuka throne, and to resolve over eight related court cases.

Source: Nile Post