By John Kusolo
The Bugisu cultural institution is poised for a significant transition from its longstanding framework, Inzu Ya Masaba, to a newly proposed entity, Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba. This development has received the backing of the Minister of State for Gender and Culture, Hon. Peace Regis Mutuuzo, who is also the Woman Member of Parliament for Bunyangabu District. Hon. Mutuuzo has expressed her ministry’s readiness to support and gazette the change, provided the transition adheres to constitutional and cultural norms.
Speaking on the matter, Hon. Mutuuzo emphasized that Article 246 of the Constitution of Uganda, particularly Section 9(a) and (b), grants cultural institutions the right to define and redefine themselves. She noted that the ministry will oversee the process to ensure it aligns with legal and cultural standards. "If the transition is within their norms and seeks to renew themselves, the ministry is prepared to gazette the change. The Bugisu leadership has the liberty to determine how they evolve under the law," she remarked.
The proposal to transition to Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba stems from concerns raised by Umukuuka Jude Mike Mudoma III, the current leader of Inzu Ya Masaba. According to him, the constitution governing Inzu Ya Masaba is no longer legally tenable under the Cultural Leaders and Institutions Act of 2011. Established in 2010, Inzu Ya Masaba has played a pivotal role in preserving the culture and traditions of the Bagisu people. However, Mudoma argues that the existing framework has become obsolete, necessitating a shift to a new governance structure that complies with current legal provisions.
The proposed transition is expected to align the institution with updated legal frameworks and provide a more inclusive and adaptable governance system for the Bagisu community. Mudoma explained, "The old institution framework has become irrelevant under the Cultural Leaders and Institutions Act of 2011. To preserve our cultural heritage and ensure compliance with the law, we must adopt the Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba framework."
Article 246 of the Ugandan Constitution recognizes the autonomy of cultural institutions to manage their affairs, provided they do so in accordance with the law. Section 9 of the Cultural Leaders and Institutions Act further elaborates on the rights of cultural institutions to redefine their governance structures. Hon. Mutuuzo reiterated that the government will support the Bagisu people in their efforts to modernize their cultural leadership, provided the process is inclusive and respects their cultural heritage.
She also called on the leadership and community to ensure that the transition reflects the collective will of the Bagisu people. “Cultural institutions are custodians of our identity. Any change should be inclusive and reflect the aspirations of the people,” she added.
Community Perspectives
The proposed transition has sparked mixed reactions among members of the Bagisu community. While some see it as a necessary step to modernize and align with legal standards, others are concerned about the implications for cultural unity and tradition.
Proponents of the change argue that the new framework will provide a more inclusive and flexible system of leadership, capable of addressing the needs of the modern Bagisu community. However, critics fear that such a transition might dilute cultural practices or create divisions within the community.
As the Bugisu cultural leadership navigates this pivotal moment, the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development has pledged its support to ensure a smooth transition. Hon. Mutuuzo emphasized the importance of dialogue and consensus among stakeholders to safeguard the unity and integrity of the Bagisu culture.
In the coming months, consultations are expected to take place among cultural leaders, community members, and legal experts to finalize the transition framework. Once all procedures are completed and consensus is reached, the ministry will gazette the new entity, officially marking the dawn of Bukuka Bwe Bamasaba.
This development underscores the evolving nature of cultural institutions in Uganda, as they seek to adapt to changing legal, social, and cultural landscapes while preserving their heritage. For the Bagisu people, this transition represents not just a legal shift but an opportunity to redefine and strengthen their cultural identity in the modern era.
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