Newly elected local government leaders in the Busoga Sub-region have been called upon to uphold integrity and prioritize public service delivery over personal gain as they settle into office.
The call was made by Hajji Farouk Kirunda, Deputy Presidential Secretary and Presidential Assistant in charge of mobilisation in Busoga, during an engagement with political leaders and technocrats from various local governments held in Luuka District.
The meeting brought together political leaders, religious figures, civil society actors, opinion leaders, and members of the business community.
Kirunda emphasized that leadership comes with high expectations from the public and warned against distractions that derail service delivery.
He urged leaders to adopt a more strategic approach to governance, focusing on practical solutions to challenges affecting their communities rather than engaging in what he termed unnecessary political wrangles.
He further encouraged elected officials to take an active role in government development programmes, particularly those in the agricultural sector, saying their participation would inspire communities to embrace economic transformation. According to him, leaders who lead by example are more likely to influence positive change at the grassroots level.
At the same time, Kirunda cautioned citizens against placing excessive personal financial demands on their leaders, noting that expectations such as paying school fees, settling debts, or covering medical bills often divert attention from broader development priorities. He said such pressures can undermine effective service delivery if not addressed.
His remarks sparked discussion among participants, with some community representatives agreeing on the need for value-based leadership.
Rebecca Nakyesa, chairperson of the Ge’makumwino Women Group in Bulongo Sub-county, said leadership development should be grounded in accountability, integrity, and confidence. She expressed concern that these values are being weakened, partly due to voters prioritizing financial incentives over competence during elections.
Nakyesa also noted that her organisation has supported women aspiring for leadership positions, but warned that the rising cost of campaigns is increasingly distorting electoral outcomes and could impact the quality of leadership in the coming years.
On his part, Luuka District LCV Chairperson Peter Mulyandawo observed that the quality of leaders mirrors the values upheld by the electorate. He argued that integrity must be cultivated at the family and community level if it is to be reflected in public leadership, adding that strong moral foundations are essential for better governance across all sectors.
English 