Babiito Clan Demands Bunyoro Prime Minister's Exit

Andrew Byakutaga, the Omuhikirwa (Prime Minister) of Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom, has been ordered by the Babiito ruling clan to step down within four weeks. This demand comes from the chief prince, Okwir Eng Fred Mugenyi Rucunya, who stated that Byakutaga is illegally holding office, as his term officially concluded in October 2023 and was extended to June 30, 2024.

Rucunya asserted that a subsequent one-year extension granted by the royal commission on June 27, 2024, was unlawful. He argued that the royal commission lacks the authority to extend the premier’s tenure, a power he claims rests with him as designated by the Omukama (King).

The chief prince also voiced concerns about the royal commission’s administration, accusing its members of frustrating his efforts to advance the kingdom’s interests. He called for a public apology from both the commission and Byakutaga regarding the kingdom’s administrative affairs.

Byakutaga was initially appointed in January 2018. The current dispute is part of a longer-standing conflict over administrative authority within the kingdom, which has seen Byakutaga suspended and reinstated previously. Rucunya has threatened to mobilize subjects to force Byakutaga out if he does not comply with the ultimatum.

Accusations against Byakutaga include running the kingdom without a cabinet for three years, lack of transparency, financial mismanagement, and alleged fraudulent activities. Byakutaga, when approached, declined to comment on the ultimatum. Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom has been without a parliament and cabinet ministers since 2023 due to internal disagreements.

Source: https://observer.ug/news/babiito-order-bunyoro-kitara-prime-minister-to-vacate-office