By Aggrey Baba
On Thursday, Bukooli North MP Hon. Jamal Ayagalaki Mukuve demonstrated why he is increasingly being regarded as one of Busoga Sub-region’s most active lawmakers in the 12th Parliament after putting Prime Minister (PM) Robinah Nabbanja under pressure over the government’s continued failure to permanently address the deadly flooding at Kibimba Swamp in Bugiri District.
During a plenary sitting, Ayagalaki, who represents Bukooli North on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, rose on a matter of national importance after being granted an opportunity by Speaker Rt. Hon. Oboth-Oboth. The youthful MP questioned why government has continued to delay rehabilitating the notorious swamp despite repeated fatal accidents whenever heavy rains hit the area.
“Until when shall Ugandans keep losing lives?” Ayagalaki asked as he reminded Parliament that only a few weeks ago, the swamp flooded again, claiming the lives of two people.
Residents of Bugiri have reportedly lived with the dangerous situation for years and thats why the MP wondered why a permanent solution has never been prioritized despite the repeated loss of life and disruption of transport whenever the area floods, a question which appeared to put the PM on the defensive.
Responding, Nabbanja said Ayagalaki’s wording was “too negative” although she assured the MP that she would personally engage with him and the relevant authorities to see how the swamp can be considered for intervention.
She, however, cautioned MPs against blaming government for every road tragedy.
“Accidents do happen. Stop blaming the government for everything. Why should someone use a flooded road yet you know what could happen?” Nabbanja said, arguing that some accidents can be avoided if people exercise caution.
Since entering Parliament after defeating longtime Bukooli North MP Stephen Mugabi Baka (NRM), in the recent elections, Ayagalaki is steadily building a profile as one of Busoga’s most outspoken representatives.
Beyond Thursday’s debate, he has previously petitioned government to refurbish, fully equip and ensure a steady supply of medicines at Bugiri Main Hospital, arguing that residents deserve better healthcare services. He has also repeatedly challenged fellow Members of Parliament to speak out against injustices affecting Ugandans instead of remaining silent.
His parliamentary responsibilities also extend beyond constituency matters. Ayagalaki serves as the Shadow Minister for Water and Environment, a role that closely aligns with his latest push for government intervention on the flood-prone Kibimba Swamp.
Outside Parliament, he remains active in community engagements across Bugiri and is also a member of the Uganda Parliamentary Football Club.
Thursday’s exchange with Nabanja highlighted Ayagalaki’s determination to keep pressure on government over service delivery, particularly on infrastructure that directly affects the safety and livelihoods of the people of Bukooli North, and all Ugandans. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
