Energy State Minister Okaasai Opolot Commissions Kakagate Underground Water Pump Amid Political Drama In Kiruhura

A political dispute unfolded as Hon. Sidronious Okaasai Opolot, the State Minister of Energy and Mineral Development, inaugurated the Kakagate Underground Water Pump in Kiruhura district on a stormy Friday in Kiruhura district.

The event was marked by a clash between Wilson Kajwengye, the Nyabushozi County Member of Parliament, and his political adversary, Jotham Taremwa, the former Spokesperson of the Electoral Commission. Both prominent members of the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM) party, Kajwengye and Taremwa are vying for influence over the newly inaugurated utilities, which they hope will bolster their positions ahead of the 2026 parliamentary elections.

The longstanding animosity between the two politicians erupted publicly during the commissioning ceremony. Taremwa is determined to unseat Kajwengye, seeking grassroots support in Nyabushozi County. The rivalry culminated in a dramatic scene during the event, underscoring the deep-seated animosity between the two.

Ceremony Interrupted

The ceremony began at 10:30 a.m. with several district leaders, including Richard Kiiza, the Deputy CAO, Safari Mugyenyi, the Sanga Town Council Chairperson, and five LC III Chairpersons from neighboring sub-counties in attendance. Kajwengye and Jovanice Twinobusingye, the District Woman Representative, arrived shortly before the minister. As the event progressed, Taremwa entered with a group of cheering supporters, causing a commotion that required intervention by the Anti-Riot Police.

Taremwa was escorted to the VIP tent, where he conspicuously avoided greeting Kajwengye, highlighting their rivalry. Despite the tension, Kajwengye addressed the gathering, emphasizing his efforts to secure the utilities for the community.

“It has been a long journey of eight years of lobbying for these utilities for my people, and finally, the Government has responded. This demonstrates effective representation in Parliament,” Kajwengye declared, asserting his role in the project’s fruition.

However, the crowd’s reaction suggested divided loyalties, with some attributing the success to Taremwa, whose wife, an Undersecretary in the Ministry of Energy, reportedly played a significant role in the project’s implementation.

Minister’s Address

Minister Okaasai, aware of the political rift, addressed the gathering with caution, emphasizing the government’s commitment to the Electricity Connection Policy (ECP) spanning 2018-2027. He highlighted the importance of safeguarding the newly commissioned utilities from vandalism, noting Kiruhura’s high ranking for such incidents.

The Kakagate Underground Water Pump marks a significant development for the community, with the new power supply increasing the water station’s pumping capacity from 150,000 to 500,000 cubic liters. The project is part of a UGX 13.3 billion rural electrification initiative covering multiple districts, aiming to improve socio-economic conditions in rural areas.

Political Implications

The political controversy surrounding the commissioning event underscores the competitive nature of local politics, with both Kajwengye and Taremwa striving to claim credit for the government’s efforts. Such disputes are not uncommon in Uganda, where politicians often leverage development projects to garner voter support.

As the 2026 elections approach, the rivalry between Kajwengye and Taremwa is expected to intensify, with both candidates seeking to solidify their influence in Nyabushozi County. The commissioning of the Kakagate Power and Water Plant serves as a focal point in this ongoing political battle, highlighting the intersection of development and electoral politics in the region.

However, the role of a Member of Parliament includes legislation, budget approval, oversight and representation but MPs do not construct or repair roads, build hospitals or schools, or have an obligation to contribute to voters’ personal expenses.