Political Turmoil Unfolds In Masaka As City Councilors Oust Speaker Over Alleged Misconduct, Abuse Of Office

Tony Ssempijja, the Speaker of Masaka City Council, faced a vote of no confidence from councilors who accused him of abusing his office and engaging in social misconduct. The impeachment, which occurred during an extraordinary council session overseen by Minister of Local Government Raphael Magyezi and Permanent Secretary Ben Kumumanya, followed a petition by 13 out of 16 councilors.

The allegations against Ssempijja included abuse of office, stifling free debate, tampering with council records for personal gain, and neglecting parental responsibilities, tarnishing the council’s reputation. Rosette Nansubuga, the City Female representative, led the councilors in petitioning the Minister of Local Government to replace the Speaker with someone more credible.

Despite Ssempijja’s apologies and attempts at reconciliation, the councilors, led by Nansubuga, voted to remove him from office. Ssempijja, accompanied by his lawyer Jude Mbabali, requested a one-week period for resolution, but the councilors insisted on proceeding with the vote.

Achilles Mawanda was subsequently elected as the new Masaka City Council Speaker. Ssempijja, expressing his intention to challenge the impeachment in court, faced resistance from councilors who claimed he remained indifferent to their concerns.

Minister Magyezi emphasized his role in guiding the council through the conflict, citing previous unsuccessful attempts to advise Ssempijja on reconciliation. Magyezi highlighted the ministry’s commitment to preventing confusion within the council, emphasizing the importance of effective service delivery and meeting the people’s aspirations.

It is noteworthy that Ssempijja’s earlier attempt to block a debate on a motion of censure through a court injunction failed, with the Masaka High Court Registrar dismissing his application earlier in the month.