MASAKA – Drama unfolded during a high-level government meeting in Masaka City when Senior Local Government Minister Hon. Balaam Barugahara publicly called out his state minister, Hon. Justine Nameere Nsubuga, over repeated breaches of protocol.
In a video clip that has since gone viral, a visibly frustrated Balaam cut off Nameere as she attempted to interject while he was addressing the assembly.
“Let me talk. I don’t like this. Please. Please. Not even today. I’m the one who has made this call. I already initiated. Please kindly, for once, respect the meeting,” Balaam stated firmly, bringing the room to a temporary standstill.
He insisted that order be maintained and demanded respect for his authority as the cabinet minister leading the delegation.
The heated exchange took place in full view of local leaders, residents, and journalists. Seated right next to Nameere, Balaam redirected the floor back to the key proceedings, addressing the district controller while urging his junior minister to adhere to the established order.
A High-Stakes Crackdown Turn Sour
The Masaka engagement was part of the Ministry of Local Government’s nationwide drive to expose corruption and resolve administrative bottlenecks in local governments.
Central to the Masaka discussions was a lingering dispute over coffee seedlings delivered to local farmers. The issue has fueled public outcry over allegations of delayed payments and supply irregularities involving municipal officials and private contractors. Nameere had previously been involved in mediation efforts between aggrieved suppliers and local authorities.
Growing Friction in the Ranks?
Balaam’s blunt public reprimand has sparked intense debate online regarding official decorum, command structure, and workplace professionalism within government ranks.
While some political analysts view Balaam’s firm stance as a necessary step to maintain order during a public forum, others suggest the flare-up points to deeper underlying friction between the two leaders—particularly with the meeting taking place in Nameere’s home turf.
By Watchdog Reporter
July 29, 2026
This report is based on video footage from the venue and public proceedings. Watchdog Uganda continues to follow up on both the administrative conduct matter and the resolving of the coffee seedling dispute.
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