By Our Staff Reporter

Mbale- Uganda-Tensions in the Bugisu sub-region took a new turn after Jude Mike Mudoma signaled he could step aside from his position if credible legal wrongdoing is proven against him, raising the stakes in the ongoing leadership dispute within the Inzu ya Masaaba Cultural Institution.

Addressing journalists and security officials during a meeting in Maluku, Mudoma firmly defended his leadership, describing it as transparent and within the law. However, he made it clear that he would not cling to power if found at fault.

“If anyone can prove even two mistakes I have committed against the law, I am ready to step down,” he stated.

The remarks come amid a deepening standoff over cultural authority in Bugisu, where rival factions continue to contest legitimacy and control of the cultural institution. The dispute has, in recent months, drawn public attention and raised concern among leaders about its potential impact on unity in the region.

Mudoma also used the platform to urge journalists to uphold professionalism, emphasizing the need for accurate, fact-based reporting at a time when misinformation could worsen divisions.

Efforts to resolve the impasse may soon gain momentum after Mudoma revealed plans to engage the Resident City Commissioner to convene dialogue between opposing sides. The move is aimed at creating space for negotiations and easing tensions.

Meanwhile, the judiciary has pushed for a non-confrontational path, with guidance that disputes linked to the institution be handled through Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms. The approach is expected to encourage compromise and reduce reliance on lengthy court processes.

Security officials have warned that unchecked narratives and public speculation could heighten instability if not managed carefully.

As calls for dialogue grow louder, attention now shifts to whether key stakeholders will embrace mediation efforts or allow the conflict to further entrench divisions within the Bugisu community.