Former SIU Clan Leader Masaba Wabwayi Reconciles with Umukuuka Mudoma, Vows to Champion Unity in Bugisu
The meeting, held at the Umukuuka’s office in Maluku, Mbale City, was arranged by Cabinet members from the SIU Clan—Hon. John Wambi and Sam Sakwa Napokoli—and marked a new chapter in Bugisu’s cultural and community leadership.
A significant reconciliation has unfolded in the cultural leadership of the Bagisu (Bamasaaba) people, following the decision of former SIU Clan Chairman, Stephen Masaba Wabwayi Mascience, to align and work with the recognized cultural leader, Umukuuka wa Bugisu Sir Jude Mike Mudoma.
The meeting, held at the Umukuuka’s office in Maluku, Mbale City, was arranged by Cabinet members from the SIU Clan—Hon. John Wambi and Sam Sakwa Napokoli—and marked a new chapter in Bugisu’s cultural and community leadership.
Break from Past Divisions
Masaba Wabwayi had previously been allied with John Amram Wagabyalire, who disputes Umukuuka Mudoma’s tenure and, alongside other elders known as the “5Ws,” insisted that Inzu ya Masaaba (IYM) should be the rightful cultural authority. The group also favored the identity “Bamasaaba” over “Bagisu.”
However, the Central Government through Minister of Gender, Labour, and Social Development Betty Amongi earlier this year issued a corrigendum to correct Gazette notices dating back to 2014. This move reaffirmed the legitimacy of Mudoma’s leadership under the Institution of Traditional or Cultural Leaders (ITCL) Act, Cap 242 (2011) and the 1995 Constitution of Uganda, effectively leaving no legal room for IYM’s claims.
Reconciliation and Apology
Speaking after the meeting, Umukuuka Mudoma disclosed that Mr. Masaba Wabwayi extended a sincere apology for his past actions and statements that had undermined his leadership.
“Mr. Masaba candidly acknowledged that he had been misinformed by the 5Ws. Upon acquiring a deeper understanding of the facts and the progress made during my tenure, he resolved to reconcile and collaborate with my leadership,” Mudoma said.
The Umukuuka further noted that Wabwayi expressed admiration for ongoing initiatives, particularly the education scholarships extended to children in the Bugisu region under Mudoma’s stewardship.
A Pledge to Champion Unity
During the discussions, Masaba Wabwayi pledged to champion unity among the Bamasaaba and to engage those still spreading “unfounded propaganda” against Mudoma’s leadership. His vast experience in community mobilization and skilling was recognized as a valuable resource for the Umukuuka’s administration.
“This reconciliation is a testament to the power of dialogue, understanding, and the unwavering commitment to the well-being of our people. I warmly welcomed Mr. Masaba’s gesture and encouraged him to join me in working towards the betterment of our community,” Umukuuka Mudoma stated.
The development is seen as a crucial step in consolidating cultural leadership in Bugisu, which has been marred by divisions over legitimacy and identity. By bringing back influential figures like Masaba Wabwayi into the fold, observers note that Mudoma’s leadership may gain broader acceptance across clans.
For the Bamasaaba people, this reconciliation is not only symbolic but also a practical step toward unity, cultural preservation, and socio-economic development, anchored in dialogue and collaboration.
