President Yoweri Museveni has strongly defended his recent appointments of Balaam Barugahara as Minister for Local Government and Justine Nameere as State Minister for Local Government, arguing that their outspoken and confrontational personalities make them ideal candidates to tackle corruption and improve service delivery.
Speaking during his FY 2026/2027 Budget Speech at Kololo Ceremonial Grounds earlier today , Museveni dismissed criticism of the two leaders and instead praised what some describe as their “cantankerous and quarrelsome” nature.
“I have appointed people in Local Government whom some describe as cantankerous and quarrelsome, such as Balaam and Nameere. Nameere is famous for quarreling. So, go and quarrel with her,” Museveni said.
The President suggested that the pair’s aggressive approach to leadership could help expose corruption, recover stolen public resources, and strengthen accountability in local governments across the country.
Justine Nameere, the outspoken Masaka City Woman MP, lawyer, and former television host, has built a reputation for taking on land grabbers, challenging election irregularities, and speaking out against abuse of power. Museveni portrayed her combative style as an asset rather than a weakness.
By urging citizens to “go and quarrel with her,” the President signaled his confidence that Nameere and Balaam will aggressively confront officials accused of mismanaging public funds and failing to deliver services.
Museveni’s remarks have since sparked debate, with supporters arguing that tough leaders are needed to fight corruption, while critics question whether confrontation alone can solve the deep-rooted challenges facing local governments.
