By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
The Attorney General, Dr. Sam Mayanja has intervened in the Bamasaba cultural leadership dispute, clarifying that the Umukuka’s tenure begins on the date of taking oath of office, not the date of selection.
Dr. Mayanja was meeting a delegation of Bugisu sub region Members of Parliament on Tuesday, 7th July, 2026 who wanted to confirm whether this was indeed the position of the Attorney General.
Replying to the concerns, Dr. Mayanya said his predecessor, Kiwanuka Kiryowa had already given that legal advice on 18th March 2026 adding that he agrees with it.
This should bring to an end a push by a section of Bamasaba elders who have been arguing that Mudoma’s term of office expired in 2025. This group dates Mudoma’s official tenure to the date of selection which was 20th October, 2020.
It is important to note that HRH Jude Mike Mudoma took his oath as the Umukuka (cultural head) of the Bamasaba in Bugisu on August 4, 2023.
The swearing-in ceremony was presided over by Mbale Court Chief Magistrate Anitah Tusiimire, which officially ended a three-year leadership dispute within the Inzu Ya Masaba cultural institution.
He was later traditionally installed and given the instruments of power at the Mutoto Cultural Grounds in Mbale City on October 14, 2023.
The Attorney General’s Chambers confirmed that the opinion was indeed issued by their office and remains binding on all Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
The Attorney General’s Chambers further informed the Caucus that a written confirmation reaffirming this legal position is currently being prepared.
