Kamuli, Uganda: A dramatic leadership shake-up has swept through the Kamuli Drivers and Operators Association after members voted out the old executive over allegations of exploitation, poor accountability and opaque management.
The elections, held on Friday at Bingo Arena in Kamuli under tight police security, saw transport operators overwhelmingly reject the outgoing leadership, accusing it of turning the association into a platform benefiting only a few individuals at the expense of ordinary members.
Drivers, conductors and park operators who turned up in large numbers openly criticised the previous administration for allegedly neglecting members’ welfare despite years of collecting contributions and managing association activities.
“We can’t continue feeding a few people yet we formed this association to help us financially and socially,” said park tout Kosma Igadube during the charged meeting.
“To hell with the few and welcome aboard the leadership of the majority,” he added, drawing cheers from members.
The elections resulted in a landslide victory for Saadi Alibawa, who defeated Suleiman Ssekajja and Mustapha Lubega to become the new chairperson of the association.
According to official results announced by the Kamuli District Boda Boda Association Electoral Commission chaired by Aloysius Njenje, Alibawa secured 139 votes against Ssekajja’s nine and Lubega’s six votes.
Other elected officials included Faisal Maberi as vice chairperson, Umaru Wanume as treasurer, Yowasi Kagoda as welfare secretary, Musa Mpoya as secretary, Hussein Soozi as publicity secretary and Jumbo Abaas as traffic manager.
Speaking shortly after his victory, Alibawa pledged transparent leadership, improved welfare programmes and financial discipline within the association.
“We are opening a new chapter that is inclusive and welfare-centred,” Alibawa said in his victory speech.
He urged drivers and operators to prioritise passenger care, discipline and compliance with traffic regulations to improve professionalism in the transport sector.
“We need disciplined members who are sensitive to traffic laws and committed to customer care. We also need closer cooperation with passengers, traffic police and leaders for effective transport business,” he added.
Alibawa further challenged members to think beyond daily transport operations and invest in personal and family development as a long-term safety net.
Meanwhile, newly elected traffic manager Jumbo Abaas called for retraining and reassessment of drivers to improve compliance with transport guidelines and road safety standards.
“We shall make a comprehensive programme to help people get driving permits, vehicle registration and other relevant capacity building, including building a stronger savings base for members,” Abaas said.
Police maintained heavy deployment throughout the exercise to prevent disruptions during the highly contested polls.
The leadership changes come amid growing concerns among transport operators in several districts over welfare management, savings schemes and accountability within transport associations.
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