Internal Strife Rocks JEEMA Party: Basalirwa Faces Resistance Amidst Leadership Disputes.
Tensions have reached a boiling point within the JEEMA party, as disputes over the leadership of its youth wing have ignited a fierce internal battle. Supporters accuse their long-standing president Asuman Basalirwa of clinging to power, amidst criticism of a lack of substantial achievements during his 15-year tenure.
The rift deepens as Basaalirwa hints at maintaining his hold on power until July 2024, brushing aside calls for dialogue while actively seeking to consolidate support among the party's youth wing.
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Dr Rogers Barigayomwe, a vocal critic, has lambasted the party for perpetuating factionalism and failing to groom new leadership. He argues that the reluctance to embrace change stems from fears that new leaders may challenge the status quo, particularly following Basaalirwa's prolonged presidency.
JEEMA spokesperson Ssentongo Kyamundu has raised concerns about Basaalirwa's parliamentary performance, highlighting inefficiencies and echoing the youth's demand for fresh leadership.
In a telephone interview, JEEMA Secretary General Mayanja Kibirige acknowledges the party's internal strife but questions the reluctance of members to confront the issue directly in the forthcoming delegates conference set for July 2024, instead opting for dissent.
Basalirwa himself remains defiant, rejecting calls for his resignation and asserting that his leadership will not succumb to external pressures. He urges those opposed to his tenure to contest democratically, reaffirming his commitment to the party's ideals.
Dr. Rogers Barigayomwe, in his critique, accuses Basaalirwa of autocratic tendencies and urges JEEMA members to mobilize against what he perceives as the party's slide into irrelevance.
JEEMA, once hailed for its activism, now finds itself embroiled in a crisis of leadership. While its core principles remain steadfast, its ability to adapt to changing political landscapes is under scrutiny, leaving members grappling with uncertainty about the party's future direction.
