In December 2000, President Museveni met with Kasese district leaders at his home in Rwakitura.

Museveni stunned his audience when he revealed that 48 ADF rebels who were terrorizing western Uganda had been killed in combat action by the UPDF.

“Yesterday we killed 48 ADF, including Cobra. I am very happy about the killing of this thug,” said Museveni.

The President said Cobra, (Henry Matovu Birungi also known as “Young” and Kikkukyekulidde), had recently fled from the UPDF who were pursuing him.

He warned remnant top rebel commanders, including Abdalla Yusuf Kabanda, the chief director, and Fenahasi Kisokeranio, to surrender before they are killed.

“Let those people come out before they are killed. Kabanda is still hiding in Congo. We are going to kill him also,” Museveni said.

Benz, also known as Tushabe Munyangondo, a former ADF chief of staff, had surrendered to the UPDF a year earlier before taking part in several anti-ADF operations.

Benz’s days were numbered after it emerged that he was involved in armed robberies. He was arrested and jailed at Luzira Prison.

Murder

Of the top ADF commanders who received amnesty included UPDF Major Mohammed Kiggundu who was Saturday morning shot dead together with his bodyguard in Masanafu, Kasubi – Wakiso District.

Officials told this website that Kiggundu was a strong ally of Cobra and ADF commander Jamil Mukulu who was recently arrested by Tanzania intelligence services before being handed over to Uganda.

The shooting of Kiggundu has sparked two conspiracy theories. One is that he quit a radical Muslim sect in Kampala which could have rubbed some Islamic leaders the wrong way.

The second theory is that Kiggundu could have been eliminated for supporting efforts to crush ADF cells in many parts of the country.

In 2014, the Inspector General of Police Gen Kale Kayihura said it was possible that ADF had a hand in the killing of Muslim clerics.

“While we are not ruling out other motives in individual cases, there is strong evidence linking these murders to Al Qaeda affiliate ADF,” Kayihura explained while addressing journalists at the Police Headquarters in Naguru.

“We have credible intelligence which indicates that the majority of these clerics have been targeted because of their refusal to embrace extremist theocratic ideology; one which promotes the use of violence and terrorism as a tool of social, religious and political change.”

Already there is tension in Rwenzori areas as militants continue to engage UPDF in deadly skirmishes.

This Thursday, several militia bases in Rwenzori were captured by the UPDF soldiers, recovering weapons from the militants.

This compelled UPDF to increase deployment in Kabarole and Kasese Districts. This Saturday the UPDF used heavy gunfire to battle armed youth in street battles.

Eyewitnesses said the armed personnel raided shops and houses in a cordon and search operation hunting down suspected militants.

The Rwenzururu palace where King Wesley Mumbere resides has since been surrounded by military personnel.

At the moment, we are unable to establish the number of casualties in today’s fighting.

ChimpReports is yet to establish connections between Omusinga and ADF.

But the movement used to operate and recruit combatants from Rwenzori area.

Kiggundu was today travelling to Pearl FM, a local radio station in the city center for a talk show known as ‘Obusilamu Bugagga’.

The gunmen riding a motorcycle trailed Kiggundu for several minutes before opening fire on his army green double cabin truck.

When the car fell in a trench, the assassins quickly eliminated their target before disappearing in thin air.

Holding prayers for the deceased at Kibuli, speakers demanded a comprehensive investigation into the killing.

Clerics also appealed for calm amid rising tempers.

The Programme Manager for mental health and substance abuse in the Ministry of Health, Dr Sheila Ndyanabangi has said that even people with mental health issues ought to be respected and allowed to enjoy their rights as human beings.

She observed that people with mental health problems are often mistreated, disrespected and traumatized by calling them names and some even go ahead to chain them up like wild animals.

“I don’t like the way people with mental health problems are treated in our communities. They are denied jobs, right to inherit family property, they are not taken as important and neither are they respected by the communities instead they are cursed and seen as outsiders, it must stop,” she said

Dr Ndayanabangi made the remarks while addressing the media on the commemoration of the world mental health day, Friday at the Ministry of Health headquarters. The function was running  under the theme “dignity in mental health and mental first aid for all.”

According to David Basangwa, the head of mental programme Ministry of Health and Executive director of Butabika hospital, Ugnada is in great need of mental health first aid since it was missing in our country.

“Mental health first aid is for all of us since the problem is on the rise. Butabika has over 800000 patients and there are more out there, we should not wait for it to eleviate. Let our people learn the signs of mental illness and help each other for a safer environment and above all, save lives” he said.

“Mental health is like a wound  it does not hurt if you don’t touch it but if you do, the pain may get out of hand. So if one gets a mental breakdown they need immediate attention more so people who have been in difficult crisis’s like rape, divorce, domestic violence and so many other cases.”

In 2009 World Health Organization provided a systematic review and it indicated that physiological first aid is needed so as to restore hope into the people more so the patients.

Police have Sunday morning arrested Sheikh Yahya Ramadhan Mwanje over the murder of another Sheikh, Mohammed Kiggundu which occurred on Saturday. Sheikh Kiggundu who is the 10th Muslim cleric to be assassinated in the space of 3 years was gunned down along with his body guard, Sgt. Mukasa by four masked men who were riding on boda boda.

The incident occurred at Masanafu, a Kampala suburb.

An audio that emerged just an hour after the killing, narrates the slain Sheikh’s story a week before the gruesome incident.

In the video, the deceased (Kiggundu) said that there was a plot being masterminded by Yahya Mwanje to convince Muslim clerics in Luzira including Kamoga to accept that they have been killing fellow colleagues.

According to Kiggundu, the plot was primarily targeting him and a week later he met his death. Sheikh Yahya is now the prime suspect being detained in an unknown location after being picked by the Counter Terrorism and Flying Squad officers on Sunday.

The Police Spokesman Andrew Felix Kaweesi confirmed to journalists at an impromptu press briefing on Sunday morning at the Force’s headquarters in Naguru that Yahaya is already in their custody.

“It is true that Sheikh Yahya Mwanje has been arrested and detained. He is with us though we can’t talk about his exact whereabouts,” Kaweesi said.

According to reports, Yahya who is a key figure in the Nakasero Mosque has previously made threatening utterances against several Muslim clerics including Kiggundu.

“He is going to be interrogated in line with his digital utterances which were very inciting and we want to know his motive,” added Kaweesi.

“Other suspects are yet to be picked as investigations continue. We ask for patience and calmness to allow the police to bring culprits to book.”

The syndicated assassination of Muslim clerics started in 2013.

Elite commando units have arrested Rwenzururu King Wesley Mumbere in a daring raid on his palace in Kasese as armed militants fought decisive battles with UPDF throughout Saturday night.

Mumbere had refused to vacate his palace on orders of military and police officers on Sunday.

Police spokesperson Felix Andrew Kaweesi said most of the armed militants were hiding in the palace under the supervision of Mumbere.

“We relate with the king in areas of security. We reached him in order to contain the situation. If he doesn’t, we will use reasonable resources to restore sanity in the region,” said Kaweesi at a presser at police headquarters in Kampala.

“He should tell the criminals to get out or we will enter. We have talked to Omusinga if he cooperates we will work together,” added the police publicist.

He warned that Mumbere’s failure to quit the palace would compel the armed forces to take it over.

“We have given Rwenzori Kingdom to chase all criminals from the palace or we will move in,” said Kaweesi.

“The palace is part of Uganda. We will breaching no law if we went inside to collect criminals,” he added.

Indeed, as Kaweesi spoke at the press conference in Kampala, specialized military and police units were overrunning the heavily fortified palace.

Sources said all Royal Guards who attempted to put up resistance were taken out of action.

Mumbere is currently being airlifted to Kampala where he is scheduled to meet President Museveni at State House Entebbe at 9:00pm.

The fighting in Rwenzori has shocked the nation amid fears of a growing insurgency.

International club friendly
KCCA 3-2 Tusker

KCCA football club fought hard to claim victory against Kenya Premier league champions, Tusker in an international friendly game played on Saturday at Phillip Omondi stadium.

Muzamir Mutyaba’s strike at the death of the clock enabled the Uganda premier league defending champions defeat Tusker 3-2.

Tusker proved a perfect match for Mike Mutebi’s charges even when the Kenyan side went two goals down they came back to level the scores but Mutyaba popped up towards the end to inspire KCCA to a 3-2 victory.

Youngster Derrick Nsibambi gave KCCA a comfortable lead with a first half brace.

Nsibambi connected well with Geoffrey Sserunkuma to find space inside Tusker’s area and slotted past goalkeeper, Okello David.

The lead was stretched further in the 26th minute with Nsibambi tapping from close range, Joseph Ochaya’s low cross.

The visitors pulled one back through former KCCA and SC Villa player Anthony Ndolo at the stoke of halftime after a clumsy defending by Habib Kavuma.

Tusker came surging in the second half and a handball by defender Timothy Awany inside the forbidden area gave chance to the brewers to even the score.

Ghanaian lanky forward Stephen Owusu stepped up to convert the resultant penalty sending Benjamin Ochan, the wrong way.

With the game, destined for a draw, Mutyaba had different ideas as the creative midfielder curled from a free kick for KCCA to claim a last minute victory.

KCCA starting XI: Benjamin Ochan, Dennis Okot, Joseph Ochaya, Timothy Awany, Habib Kavuma, Isaac Kirabira, Ronald Musana, Muzamir Mutyaba, Geoffrey Sserunkuma, Derrick Nsibambi, Paul Mucureezi

Tusker starting XI: David Okello, Collins Shivachi, Lloyd Wahome, Martin Kiiza, Shafik Batambuze, Okeyo Cercidy, Tera Luis, Danson Kago, Anthony Ndolo, Clifford Alwanga, Michael Khamatti

Uganda’s commercial banks have been urged to strengthen their credit management to mitigate credit risks amid increased non-performing loans.

“Banks must be careful in evaluating the capacity of the prospective borrower to continue servicing a loan in the event of plausible shocks to revenue streams or debt servicing costs,” said Governor Emmanuel Tumusiime-Mutebile.

This would consequently boost the banking sector’s performance and resilience.

Nonperforming loans (NPLs) rose from 3.8 percent of the total loans of commercial banks in September 2015 to 7.7 percent in September 2016.

Speaking at the Annual Dinner of the Uganda Institute of Banking and Financial Services this past Friday, Mutebile acknowledged that one crucial area which needs to be addressed is that of currency mismatches.

“Foreign currency loans account for 43 percent of total bank loans, but the majority of borrowers operate businesses in the non traded goods sectors of the economy,” said Mutebile.

“Even if borrowers of foreign currency loans which operate in non traded sectors price their output in dollars, as many owners of commercial property do, they are still vulnerable to shifts in the real exchange rate, because their customers do not earn dollars.”

Non-traded goods include electricity, water supply, all public services, hotel accommodation, real estate, construction and local transportation.

Mutebile said exchange rate depreciation raises the real value of dollar denominated loan repayments but it does not enhance the capacity of non traded goods businesses to earn more income.

“Banks should restrict foreign exchange lending to companies which sell their output on the global market rather than the domestic economy, such as exporters,” he cautioned.

There have been problems in the commercial real estate sector, where heavy investment in recent years has led to oversupply in the market with the result that occupancy rates have fallen and many owners have not been able to generate sufficient income to service their loans.

Mounting government arrears to suppliers and contractors has also contributed to NPLs while borrowers with business in South Sudan have suffered losses because of the acute political and economic problems in that country.

Police has broken silence on the arrest of KTN news anchor, Joy Doreen Biira who was picked from her relative’s residence in Kasese on Sunday.

Biira, a Kenya-based Ugandan journalist who has been in Uganda for her traditional marriage ceremony spent the whole day on Sunday sharing updates about the police raid at the Rwenzururu King’s palace and the clashes in Kasese.

While appearing on NBS TV on Monday morning, Police publicist Andrew Felix Kaweesi noted that the journalist crossed the line and had to be questioned by security officials.

“In such a situation, there are areas that no one is supposed to see. There are cordoned crime scenes which you are not supposed to go beyond. If you are found beyond them, you have to be questioned,” he said.

Biira was arrested together with her fiancée, only identified as Newton and two of their friends.

The arrest of the quartet has since caused a social media outrage with activists demanding their immediate release.

Reports have indicated that Police has denied Biira’s family access to her and she is being interrogated at Kasese police station.

Only two of the three games rescheduled in the FUFA junior league took place as planned on Sunday. Vipers whacked Proline 3-0 as Bright Stars and Lweza Orange Brigade drew.

Onduparaka received free points after URA JT failed to make it the long trip to Arua. One would wonder why the tax collectors would fail to travel yet all the transport expenses were catered for by the federation!

The Club CEO Mr. Edward Kulubya revealed that the boys failed to make the trip due to a policy that requires the team to get insured before making such a long trip.

“The team did not travel to Arua because we couldn’t manage to get insurance for the boys on time,” Kulubya told ChimpSport adding that “Our policy does not allow us to transport the young boys without it (insurance).”

Further postponement

“We also tried to ask Fufa to push the match to a future date but they turned a deaf ear. The club has everything ready in terms of logistics but there are some procedures to follow. We tried to move around the different insurance companies but could not get through on time.”

According to Fufa spokesman, Ahmed Hussein, the money that had been budgeted for URA’s trip will remain in the Fufa accounts.

“A team that fails to show up for a match loses by forfeiture. The money is part of FUFA Finances and will still reflect on the accounts.”

Other games:

Joshua Ssentamu’s double and Moses Bakabulindi’s goal helped Vipers JT to cruise 3-0 over Proline Soccer Academy in a high tempo match played at the St. Mary’s college in Kisubi.

Elsewhere in Kawanda, Edrine Nkonge and George Lubowa were both on the mark as Lweza held Bright stars FC away

The games continue on Thursday with a titanic battle between KCCA Soccer Academy and Vipers in what is a repeat of last year’s final where the Kitende side reigned.

The Uganda Law Society (ULS), an association charged with ensuring high levels of professionalism among lawyers in the country has called on both sides involved in the Kasese clashes (Security officials and Rwenzururu royal guards) to cease fire and exercise restraint to avoid further loss of lives and property.

The call was made in statement released by the Association’s President, Francis Gimara on Monday, November 28.

Fresh clashes between joint security officials (Police and UPDF) and Rwenzururu royal guards broke out on Saturday morning, leaving 14 security officers and 40 Rwenzururu royal guard unit killed.

The society has since condemned the killings of Ugandans from both sides of the conflict referring to them as unnecessary.

“The unnecessary deaths and destruction of property in Kasese reminds us of our painful past as captured in the preamble to the Constitution of the Republic of Uganda and need to avoid violence as a means of resolving dispute,” the statement reads in part.

The government accuses Rwenzururu King Wesley Mumbere of terrorizing people with his militia.

Mumbere is also faulted for refusing to comply with a presidential request to hand over suspected militants at his palace for interrogation by police.

ULS today noted that their human rights and litigation committee is on ground in Kasese to follow up on the incident and make sure that the perpetrators of the incident are brought to book.

They requested that a commission of inquiry, involving both parties, international community, human rights bodies and observers be set up to investigate the cause of the conflict for a permanent solution and that all journalists arrested be released without condition.

“We demand immediate release of Joy Doreen Biira and all reporters/journalists arrested for covering this event,” the statement further reads.

Police today moved with the Kenya-based Ugandan news anchor to check the residence where she has been living since she returned for her wedding ceremony last week.

Rwenzori Forum for Peace and Justice (RFPJ), a peace advocacy group based in Kaborole District, has called for concerted efforts to stem the rising wave of radicalism in Rwenzori region, Chimp Corps report.

The peace-centred activists said unless extremist sentiments are not contained, the region is set for turbulent times.

“Overall, government and non-government peace actors in the Rwenzori region and Uganda need to cautiously analyze the vice of emerging radicalization in the Rwenzori region,” said RFPJ in a recent statement.

The remarks follow a spate of bloody clashes in Rwenzori in which at least 55 people – 14 security officers and 41 Rwenzururu Royal guards, were killed.

Police spokesperson Andrew Kaweesi said several Rwenzururu fighters would smear themselves with fetishes to protect themselves against the force of bullets.

Others used petrol bombs to attack security forces, according to area police officials.

RFPJ appealed for a greater understanding of the “root causes and sponsors of this vice and initiate interventions that will fundamentally restore peace in the region.”

The organisation cited the 2014 incident whereby over 100 youth attacked military installations and personnel in Bundibugyo, Ntoroko and Kasese districts.

The youth were said to have been smeared with medicine that was meant to safeguard them from bullets.

“After receiving amnesty from government, this group of youth, now organized under the Nuyo Youth Patriotic Association remains vulnerable and may rejoin acts of violence,” warned RFPJ.

The advocacy group said immediately after the 2016 elections, elements of ethno-political extremism emerged again reflected in the assumption of rare risks by sections of people in Kasese and Bundibugyo districts.

“These risks included civilians armed with machetes, sticks and stones attacking government armed personnel. Extremism continues to manifest itself in many other ways in Bundibugyo, Kabarole and Kasese districts including; civilians confronting government soldiers and the police, civilians establishing military-like camps and acquiring/making weapons and tools of violence.”

On November 24, the Uganda People’s Defense Forces rushed to demolish a military-like camp established by civilians in Kamabale village in Karangura Sub County in Kabarole district.

In this demolition and on-going military operation in the region, several people were killed and the alleged perpetrators of the civil insurrection arrested.

In addition to military actions against frontline persons in acts of extremism, in a more spirited way, said the advocacy group, the government and non-government actors need to venture faster into the exploration of proximate and ultimate causes of this extremism and addressing these causes.

“In this venture, cultural, political, religious and other leaders in the region who wield power and influence over the frontline people trapped in acts of extremism will greatly determine the extent to which and how  fast the region returns to normalcy.”

The Ugandan government has rushed to assure tourists of safety following clashes between security forces and Rwenzururu militants in Kasese on Friday night.

“We have confirmed that the Uganda Police Force and other security agencies are in Kasese to ensure the peace and safety of people and property,” reads a statement issued by Uganda Tourism Board on Monday.

“The safety and well-being of our guests, travelers, tourism businesses and their property is our first priority and we shall keep you updated on the situation in the area.”

The wide publicity of the fighting in Kasese could take its toll on tourism revenues.

Rwenzori mountain range is well known worldwide for its tremendous hiking experience, scenery, sunsets, permanent snow capes, views of the clouds from above and biological species biodiversity.

ChimpReports understands that Rwenzori is now under an extensive security blanket.

Security forces have been deployed in the three districts of Kabarole, Bundibugyo and Kasese.

The border entry points also are manned by security personnel.

The heavy deployment follows the arrest of King Wesley Mumbere on grounds of supporting acts of insurrection in Rwenzori.

The state accuses Mumbere of arming and recruiting militants to fight for the creation of the separatist state known as Yiira Republic.

Officials say security forces are rescuing people from Rwenzururu militants’ terror.

But Rwenzururu spokesperson, Micheal Asiimwe Bwambale denies plans to declare the area an independent state.

“The people of Kasese have always proved their love for Uganda by being strong advocates in demanding for peaceful transition of power and fundamental change of the political system,” he observed.

UTB said travelers can still “enjoy their stay in Uganda’s national parks, cities and islands.”

Over 70 mammals including 4 species of diurnal primate, 15 species of butterfly and 217 bird species including 19 Albertine Rift endemics, as well as some of the world’s rarest vegetation have been identified at Mount Rwenzori and its surrounding.

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) estimates that the Ugandan tourism industry directly contributed 320,000 jobs in 2014, with this figure creating a total of 552,700 jobs when factoring in those indirectly supported by the industry.

These figures represent 3.4 percent and 7.9 percent of Uganda‘s workforce, respectively.

Opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) President, Gen Mugisha Muntu has condemned the raid on Rwenzururu King’s palace and arrest of the king by joint security officials from the Uganda Police and the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) saying it was too fast and uncalled for.

He said that there were a number of options available for the regime and security officials to take before ‘heavy handedly’ forcing their way into the palace which they had surrounded and taken total control of.

“Why was the security acting in such a hurry? Were they expecting a formidable force from the palace that would come and over run them? Where were they getting all the pressure from?” he wondered.

Gen Muntu was Monday afternoon addressing journalists at a press conference held at Travellers Hotel in Jinja.

He noted that among the options that could have been taken were surrounding the palace, denying entry or exit to any person until the attackers surrendered.

“Security had taken full control of the palace after surrounding it. They had the capacity to deny access in or out until the militants surrendered. We have seen army units that have been surrounded for months until surrender,” he said.

“There was no hostage situation to say that they were rushing to rescue them before they are executed. What forced the security officials to act within 24 hours?”

Police spokesperson Andrew Felix Kaweesi however earlier explained that the security forces suspected that the attackers had retreated to the King’s palace to re-strategize and get better weaponry.

“We gave the king time to cooperate and send the attackers out but the time expired before he complied. We had to enter and flush them out,” Kaweesi said adding that there were weapons found in the palace which were recovered.

Muntu also said he learnt that the king was willing to cooperate with the security and was waiting for an official to engage in negotiations by the time they burst into the palace.

He railed the manner in which the king was arrested and treated saying it was disrespectful despite the situation they were acting under.

“This is a cultural leader of more than 1 million people. If he can be treated in the manner which he has been treated, up to even incarcerating him in Nalufeenya, what will happen to the ordinary Ugandan?”

“They (security) have done this to politicians, they are doing this to cultural leaders, it’s going to get to religious leaders and grow into a bigger crisis.”

UPDF Second Division Commander Brig. Peter Elweru on Sunday revealed that President Museveni called the king and they agreed to push everyone out of the palace but he didn’t honor the agreement.

“Yesterday at night we talked to him. Again His Excellency talked to him at night and they agreed he remains with only 9 (6 guards and 3 cooks),” Brig Elweru told journalists after the mission.

“We sent in people he wanted to try to persuade him to surrender those people but we realized that he was under siege by his own people (guards).”

The Minister of Information, Technology and Communication, Frank Tumwebaze has lashed at opposition parties and leaders who are aiming at taking advantage of the instability in Rwenzori region to push their political agendas.

He said that most of the opposition leaders condemning security forces for their actions have not actually assessed what was happening on ground, to inform their discussions.

“I get irritated when people want to handle situations where militias attack security personnel, diplomatically,” he said.

“Some opposition leaders are willing to take advantage of this rebellion, we have seen some already and we shall not allow them,” he added.

Tumwebaze made the remarks on Tuesday morning while appearing on local television show, NBS Morning Breeze.

He noted that the attackers in Rwenzururu are not far from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) rebels who after being flushed out of Uganda, pitched camp in neighbouring Congo.

“Security forces have so far established that some of the supplies are from Congo. These hooligans are not far from the ADF,” he said.

The minister also observed that the attacks started some time back, with the militia targeting mostly, supporters of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM).

Commenting on the issue of Security officials forcing their way into the king’s palace and the shooting inside the palace, Tumwebaze said that dialogue which was earlier employed had failed to work.

“It’s reckless to assume that security personnel had no duty to defend themselves and the country,” he said adding; “You can blame this government for anything else but on the question of dialogue, patience and tolerance, you cannot find what to criticize.”

On the issue of Rwenzururu worriers who appeared undressed in some video footages and pictures, Tumwebaze denied reports that they were undressed by security officials saying that they had undressed themselves.

“We have seen them undress, smear herbs and flour, all in preparation for war.”

Asked about whether the raid on the palace was related to the 1966 raid on the Kabaka’s palace by then President Obote’s forces, Tumwebaze said the two were totally different.

“Comparing Kasese clashes to 1966 Buganda crisis is idle talk from our desk politicians. Were there armed militias attacking security in the Kabaka’s palace then?” he wondered.

Tumwebaze noted that the government has no standing issues with the Obusinga of Rwenzururu adding that the fate of the Kingdom at the moment will be determined by their leaders.

“If the government had any issues with the kingdom, its reestablishment wouldn’t have been allowed in the first place. Their fate is now going to be determined by their leaders.”

Uganda rugby premier league defending champions Betway Kampala Old Boys (KOBS) have fired head coach Mirko Dal Molin.

The development comes just two days after the defeat to Shell Rimula Rhinos in the league.

Kobs lost their first game this season (24-31) to Rhinos and club management have decided to part ways with head coach Molin.

In a statement released by the club management, it is indicated, the Italian tactician stepped down after mutual conscent.

“Kobs would like to inform all stakeholders that effective today 28th November 2016,the club through mutual consent has decided to part ways with head coach Mr. Mirko Dal Molin,” reads part of the statement.

According to club chairman, Adrian Bukenya, the team is grateful for the time Molin has been with them.

“The club is grateful for the time Molin served Kobs winning two league titles as assistant coach in 2013/14 and as head coach during 2015/16 season.” Said Bukenya.

“He has behaved with great professionalism and dignity throughout the time he has been with us and we wish him well in his next endeavors,” the statement further reads.

Club legend, Edmund Tumusiime now takes on the mantle as head coach until the end of the 2016/17 season.

“As the club completes the search for a full time replacement, Mr. Edmund Tumusiime has been appointed interim head coach until the end of the 2016/17 league campaign,” the statement indicated.

Former Onduparaka FC coach, Allan Kabonge has been shortlisted among the three tacticians lined up for the Airtel-Fufa coach of the year award.

The awards will take place on Friday 2nd December at Speke Resort Munyonyo.

Kabonge was named best coach in the 2015-16 Fufa big league season after leading a largely unknown Onduparaka FC to the premier league in their first time of asking.

He was also the head coach when West Nile Select team defeated Uganda Cranes in a regional tour in Arua. Kabonge is currently with Big league side Masavu FC.

He is facing stiff opposition from 2015-16 Azam Uganda Premier League coach of the season, Mike Ray Mutebi and Uganda cup coach of the year George ‘Best’ Nsiimbe.

Mutebi won the league with KCCA FC while Nsiimbe outsmarted Kabonge in the finals to win the Uganda cup trophy.

Voting mechanism.

Unlike other categories where fans have been required to send messages through their phones, the coach of the year will be selected after a voting process involving senior coaches.

The three names were submitted by the FUFA Technical Committee who had tallied nominations from 20 senior coaches who are part of the Uganda Football Coaches Association (UFCA).

The coach who will receive the highest number of votes will be declared winner in the grand event on Friday.

Democratic Party (DP) has vowed to offer legal support to the King of the Rwenzururu Charles Wesley Mumbere who was arrested over the weekend during a joint operation by the Police and UPDF.

The Omusinga was arrested on Sunday the after a raid on his palace which left many people killed and others injured during crossfire between the security forces and Omusinga’s royal guards.

“We condemn the acts of violence from both the security authorities and the supporters of the king which led to loss of lives,” said the DP President, Norbert Mao on Tuesday at City House.

Mao noted that the struggle in the Rwenzori region is a struggle of identity by the Bakonzo people and a sense of feeling marginalized by the Ugandan government.

“Most of you know the Bakonzo, they feel marginalized and down trodden in Uganda; we want to call to your attention, how many Bakonjo doctors, Permanent Secretaries, Professors, Generals in the UPDF do you know.”

“I have heard of people calling for a commission of inquiry including the Uganda Law Society but we have enough reports into the issues and what is lacking is the political will to recognize the identity of the Bakonzo people and protect them as citizens of Uganda with equal rights,” Mao said.

“We call for restraint on part of Uganda’s security forces, while we condemn the civilians who attacked the police and killed them for whatever reasons; we equally condemn the excessive use of force.”

“We call for the arrest and Court marshaling of the police and army officers who led the operation; they have to take responsibility, there is a code of conduct; it doesn’t mean if there is a war then there are no laws.”

However, Police spokesperson, Andrew Felix Kaweesi on Monday said that the royal guards attacked security officials on entering the palace which prompted the officials to shoot in self-defense.

“When we entered the palace, we found what we had anticipated. They fired at the forces injuring a UPDF major,” said Kaweesi.

On the arrest of the king, DP has pledged to offer legal support to the king who is currently held at Nalufeenya police station in Jinja.

“We demand the release of the King of the Rwenzururu and as DP we offer him legal support; I know he has lawyers but DP has seasoned lawyers.”

“We will not comment on whether he is guilty or not but all we know as I talk now, no traditional leader is safe if they allow this kind of thing to continue and I call upon all Kings to come out and have their voices heard.”

Omusinga Mumbere was arrested on Sunday after refusing to cooperate with the joint security forces, to flush the attackers out of his palace where they had retreated to.

UPDF Second Division Commander, Brig. Peter Elweru who led the operation earlier told the journalists that President Museveni called the Omusinga persuading him to hand over his fighters which he didn’t do.

While addressing journalists at Uganda Media Centre on Tuesday morning, Internal affairs Minister Gen. Jeje Odong said that there no charges preferred against Omusinga yet, noting that investigations were still underway to establish his involvement in the rebellion.

The opposition chief Raila Odinga is hoodwinking Kenyans on corruption in an effort to derail the government’s development agenda, President Uhuru Kenyatta has said.

The President said the opposition leader has no clear agenda for the country, and he has always championed propaganda throughout his political career.

President Kenyatta was speaking in Naromoru, Nyeri, when he launched the construction of the Narumoru-Ngaring’iru-Ngobit Road on Monday.

President Kenyatta cited the year 2007, saying the economy grew up to 7 per cent. The President said the opposition leader started spreading politics of hatred, which ultimately ruined the prosperity being witnessed at the time.

“The problem in this country is bad politics. We are focusing on negative and divisive politics. Recently, when we allocated money to put up a referral hospital in Nanyuki to ease pressure for Nyeri Hospital, the same person said money has been stolen,” said President Kenyatta.

The Head of State said the corruption scandals ‘’you keep hearing are just narratives aimed at derailing Jubilee’s economic programme..

He pointed out that the Jubilee government is putting up systems which will spur economic growth, but the opposition chief is not happy about that.

The President said the tarmacking of the Narumoru-Ngaring’iru-Ngobit Road will ease the movement of people and goods, and access of markets for farm produce will become easy.

“This is historical. For the first time, we are launching the construction of a tarmac road in Laikipia County,” said President Kenyatta.

The President also announced that the government has set aside Ksh 80 million for modernization of Naromoru hospital so as to help the locals’ access basic medical services within the area.

He said currently the residents are forced to travel long distance to Nyeri town to seek services which could easily be accessed within the hospital once the face lifting of the hospital is done.

“The millions we are allocating to this hospital are for putting up  a modern theatre, ex-ray machines and other modern equipment,” said the President.

The President also commissioned the construction of a modern market at Chaka trading center, which he said will be a model to be replicated throughout the country.

The President said the market will be a one stop shop for all activities as it will serve wholesalers, retailers and also value addition industries.

“This market in addition to serving farmers will also have banking services and all that is required by the people when they go shopping,” said the President.

Deputy President William Ruto dismissed political propaganda against the Government, saying Jubilee won’t be distracted from its agenda to serve the people of Kenya.

‘’We will continue building roads, providing water, installing electricity and improving hospitals and medical care,’’ he said.

Transport and Infrastructure Cabinet Secretary James Macharia said the government has set aside Kshs 19.5 billion for the improvement of road infrastructure in Laikipia County.

Several infrastructural projects are ongoing countrywide and that once complete Kenyans will be able to move with ease throughout doing business without any limits.

Local leaders led by Nyeri Governor Nderitu Gachau and Laikipia Governor Joseph Irungu thanked the President and his deputy for providing good and exemplary leadership to the nation.

National Council of Sports (NCS) is still engulfed in confusion over which faction should legitimately administer football in Uganda.

NCS is still at sixes and sevens over the two worrying factions of Moses Magogo and Dan Walusimbi who both claim legitimacy over the right to run football in the country.

In a press briefing held on Tuesday at NCS headquarters in Lugogo, to give a progressive report in the implementation of the 2014 NCS statutory instrument that calls for registration of all sports associations, the issue over the local football governing body (FUFA) raised several concerns.

NCS chairman Bosco Onyik indicated that the current confusion in football is as a result of Magogo taking things for granted.

“All this confusion in football is as a result of FUFA-Magogo delay to apply for a certificate of incorporation as a trustee,” he said.

“This gave chance for Walusimbi to rush and get the certificate from Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development which is not our fault,” added Onyik.

However, Onyik indicated that at the moment, they have no football association they recognise and waiting for the judgement on the case in court between Walusimbi and Ministry of Lands.

Synopsis of the whole saga

In April 2014, government passed into law a statutory instrument, under the NCS Sports Act which called for re-registration of all sports associations.

The law was replacing the 1964 NCS Sports Act which was deemed obsolete in regards to modern sports and all sports disciplines were given six months.

However, the law required that all national sports associations register as trustees a thing which FUFA under Magogo desisted indicating it contradicts with world governing body FIFA.

The laws were immediately challenged in court by legal Brains Trust but following a period of vacation on the court injunction, National Council of Sports went ahead with the process setting a decline for all associations to register by June this year.

FUFA insisted until FIFA gave them the greenlight to register in a meeting with the FIFA legal team, Ministry of Education and Sports, National Council of Sports in October.

FIFA stated that FUFA could register as a trustee as long as there is no interference from government or else they risk a ban.

FUFA went ahead to make the amendments that called for change of name from FUFA limited which was done and changed to Scoreline limited and after the Fufa general assembly in Luweero, Magogo’s faction submitted all the requirements to NCS but only missed out on the certificate of Incorporation from Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development which earlier had been issued to Dan Walusimbi.

Reports indicate, the then Minister of Lands, Daudi Migereko attempted to cancel the certificate given to Walusimbi but his decision was challenged in court and the certificate was reinstated.

At the moment, there is another case before court in which challenges the certificate awarded to Walusimbi and it is upon the judgement that NCS will determine which faction will be recognised.

Surprisingly, after the media briefing, NCS went into a meeting with Fufa headed by Magogo to discuss the national team budget for the forthcoming 2017 African cup of Nations yet NCS claim they don’t recognise any of the two factions.

The defense counsel in the case where 14 people are acussed of attacking Kabamba Barracks has asked court to punish the second Prosecution Witness Mr Ssemwanga Lutaaya who was summoned to appear in court today but failed due to unclear reasons.

Appearing before the General court martial chaired by Lt Gen Andrew Gutti, the lead Prosecutor Maj Raphael Mugisha informed court that their witness who was expected to appear in court for cross examination has not been able to make it promising that he would be present in court next week.

Responding to this, Counsel Ssemawanga asked court to react on the delayed trial of his clients thus describing Prosecution’s act of seeking for adjournment as a total abuse of the court procedure.

“I pray that this honorable court’s members disregard the evidence by this witness who has been on stand for so long. It’s unfair to my clients who have been in custody for over 2years.”

Semwanga asked court to task the prosecution to summon to witnesses in the next court sitting in that once one does not turn up the second one may appear thus saving court’s time

Fredrick Ssemwanga who works with Uganda Broadcasting Cooperation (UBC) is the second prosecution witness in this matter who has the responsibility to tender in court transcribed content of the Audio recording that is alleged to contain details from the meetings aiming at overthrowing President Museveni.

In the same court sitting journalists have been banned from any further usage of their gadgets in court. The directive was issued by the court chairman Lt Gen Andrew Gutti without providing any reason

The matter has been adjourned to 13^th December 2016 for further hearing

Prosecution alleges that the fourteen, Lt. Col Phillip Frank Eguma, Pte Kenneth Ssekajja, Capt Halman Ba, Lt. Ronald Mwavu, Sgt. Nduga Musaazi, Nasim Namuzimuule (female), Marvin Ssemwogerere Kato, John Lumala Salongo, Patrick Kibuuka, Solomon Matovu, Peter Kibirige, Herbert Biyimbwa, Ali Mukiibi and Francis Kiwanuka and others still at large between the months of February and May 2013 in the various places of Kampala, Wakiso, Masaka, Luweeo and in Nairobi Kenya, consciously omitted to disclose vital information about recruitment of people to engage into activities intended to prejudice the security of the defence forces by attacking the armored warfare barracks in Mubende district.

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Amelia Kyambadde has suspended the elections for the new leadership of the Uganda National Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

The minister is expected to make known of this unprecedented decision tomorrow Wednesday at a press conference in Kampala.

The elections for the new leadership at Chamber of commerce were concernedly gaining a lot of momentum, with city businessman and writer Andrew Rugasira mustering everything at his disposal to dislodge the incumbent president, Mrs Olive Kigongo.

The decision to suspend the elections comes on the heels of reports that Mr Rugasira has been moving around the country mobilizing business association heads against Mrs. Kigongo.

His campaign is premised on accusations that Kigongo had led to among others the collapse of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Uganda.

The Good African Coffee proprietor had so far brought together a powerful campaign team to lead him to the helm of the Chamber of Commerce.

Rugasira (2nd Right) with some of his campaign team members

Among these was senior journalist and analyst Andrew Mwenda, Tycoon Patrick Bitature, NBS’s Kin Kariisa, Lead Tourism Entrepreneur Amos Wekesa, Makerere’s top economist Augustine Niwagaba, among others.

The development also follows reports that Mrs Kigongo personally petitioned President Yoweri Museveni to throw his weight behind her, to ensure that she retains the seat.

Asked Tuesday evening to comment on the impeding suspension of the election, Mr Andrew Rugasira declined to comment saying this was “not a good time.”