By Weswa Ronnie
MANAFWA
Francis Namusole, Assistant Town Clerk of Bunyiza Town Council, faced a tough day during Manafwa district’s budget passing session on Wednesday, 29th April, 2026.
Chief Administrative Officer, Kimuli Nseku announced Namusole’s interdiction amid allegations of involvement in conflicts with Speaker, Isaac Matanda.
Councilors had reported Namusole to the CAO, accusing him of peddling false allegations that Speaker of Manafwa Isaac Matanda swindled Shs 50 million meant for their tour. The move follows tensions between councilors and leaders over alleged misappropriation of tour funds, with many councilors set to leave office next month.
Tensions ran high after councilors threatened to block the budget for not facilitating them for the tour, prompting the speaker to call a 30-minute recess to calm the situation.
Upon reconvening, the CAO asked the accused staff member to defend himself against the allegations of spreading false information about the LCV chairperson and speaker.
The staff member refused to respond, prompting the CAO to announce his interdiction. The CAO stated that the staff member would officially receive a letter the next day regarding allegations of involvement in political conflicts and spreading misinformation to incite councilors.
However, after the budget was passed, LCV chairperson Kigai warned technical staff against getting involved in political matters or conflicts.
Kigai says Manafwa district’s development is hindered by internal conflicts, emphasizing that technical and political leaders must collaborate to drive progress.
He also mentioned that the district had hoped to generate local revenue from the pamechline mining site in Butiru sub-county to fund councilors’ tours, but the funds weren’t forthcoming, delaying the tour. Kigai assured that no district officials misappropriated the money.
The district has approved a budget of over 45 billion shillings for the 2026/27 financial year, prioritizing health, production, works, and education.
