State Minister for Local Government Justine Nameere has accused Minister Haruna Kasolo of allegedly working behind the scenes to damage her political career, saying his efforts will not succeed.
Nameere made the remarks while responding to what she described as attempts by some political opponents to use recent events in Masaka to tarnish her image and create a negative public perception about her leadership.
The minister said she is aware of people who are looking for opportunities to bring her down, but insisted that she remains confident because she has nothing to hide.
Nameere explained that she was the one who encouraged Senior Minister for Local Government Balaam Barugahara to begin the government’s accountability tour in Masaka after covering areas such as the Elgon zone.
According to Nameere, Balaam had considered starting the tour in other regions, including Gulu in Acholi and Luwero in Buganda, but she pushed for Masaka because she wanted her area to be among the first places examined.
She said choosing Masaka was a sign that she was ready to face any questions and demonstrate transparency in her role as a government leader.
Nameere argued that leaders who have nothing to hide should not fear public scrutiny or accountability exercises.
She claimed that some of her political rivals wanted the Masaka tour to become an opportunity to embarrass her and weaken her standing among citizens.
The minister specifically mentioned Haruna Kasolo, accusing him of allegedly trying to use the situation to discredit her politically.
She however dismissed the alleged efforts, saying those trying to fight her would eventually fail.
Nameere said she has remained firm despite what she described as pressure and attempts to intimidate her.
She claimed that calls and pressure from Kasolo started after Kyotera County MP’s ally Ntale was reportedly facing possible arrest.
According to Nameere, she refused to be influenced and maintained her position because she cannot be intimidated by political pressure.
The minister further alleged that individuals linked to her political opponents mobilised groups of elderly women to protest and embarrass her during the Masaka accountability tour.
She said such actions were intended to create a negative image of her before Minister Balaam, government officials and members of the media.
Nameere maintained that her record in leadership should be judged based on her actions and service to the people rather than accusations from political opponents.
She added that people have searched for scandals that could be used against her but have failed to find any wrongdoing.
The minister insisted that she has stayed away from controversial dealings, including land disputes and questionable tender arrangements.
She said she has focused on serving the public and promoting government programmes rather than engaging in activities that could damage her reputation.
Nameere concluded by saying she remains confident that attempts to destroy her political career will not succeed, adding that she will continue carrying out her responsibilities despite criticism.
The allegations have since attracted public attention, with political observers watching how the disagreements among government figures will unfold.
