Chaos in Kyenjojo as councillor snatches speaker’s mace
The chaos began when district chairperson Gilbert Rubaihayo presented Fred Bazarrabusa for approval as chairperson of the commission, a position left vacant following the death of former chairperson Joyce Kwebiiha last month.
While running through the streets of Kyenjojo town, Rev. Atuhaire Atuhaire (in white shirt) alleged that jobs in the district were being sold rather than awarded on merit. (Photos by Daniel Beingana)
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Drama unfolded in the Kyenjojo District Council when Rev. Atuhaire Moses, the councillor representing Kyarusozi subcounty, forcefully grabbed the speaker’s mace in protest against the approval of a new District Service Commission chairperson.
The chaos began when district chairperson Gilbert Rubaihayo presented Fred Bazarrabusa for approval as chairperson of the commission, a position left vacant following the death of former chairperson Joyce Kwebiiha last month.
Rev. Atuhaire, during the sitting on March 11, 2026, opposed the nomination, accusing Bazarrabusa of incompetence, corruption and absenteeism during past commission meetings when he was a member.
When speaker Ronald Karamagi demanded evidence, Atuhaire insisted that the council defer the approval until the next sitting, promising to return with proof.
Karamagi declined and ordered him to sit down. Instead, Atuhaire stormed forward, seized the mace and dashed out of the chamber, pursued by the sergeant-at-arms.
While running through the streets of Kyenjojo town, Atuhaire alleged that jobs in the district were being sold rather than awarded on merit. He cited stalled promotions for teachers and nurses, as well as unfilled positions in hospitals and schools.
Rev. Moses Atuhaire (in white shirt) being taken to Police.
He later returned the mace, allowing the council to resume its sitting.
However, as speaker Karamagi announced plans to suspend him, Atuhaire again snatched the mace, prompting police intervention. He was arrested amid chaos in the chamber and taken into custody at Kyenjojo Central Police Station.
As he was being taken away, Atuhaire maintained his stance, saying: “They are arresting me, but they cannot arrest those who sell jobs. Extortion here is too much.”
Speaking to New Vision, district chairperson Gilbert Rubaihayo dismissed the allegations, describing Atuhaire’s claims as lies. He defended Bazarrabusa as “a man of integrity.”
Kyenjojo chief administrative officer Masereka Hamis Asuman also refuted the corruption claims, insisting that recruitment and promotions had been ongoing across departments.
Despite the drama, the council proceeded to approve Bazarrabusa as chairperson of the District Service Commission.