The Minister of Local Government, Hon. Balaam Barugahara, convened a special council meeting in Jinja District to address concerns over service delivery, clarify the roles of the political and technical leadership, and resolve conflicts that have affected the district’s operations.
The meeting, chaired by District Speaker Hon. Kibombo Simon, brought together the District Chairperson, Executive Committee members, Members of Parliament, the Resident District Commissioner, district councillors, the Chief Administrative Officer, chairpersons of boards and commissions, technical staff, officials from the Ministry of Local Government and other invited guests.
Hon. Balaam said the meeting was not intended to advance partisan interests but to listen to leaders and find solutions to issues raised by councillors in a petition that prompted the special sitting.
“I am not here for a party. I am here to listen and help in resolving the issues that have caused this special meeting to be called,” he said.
Councillors raised several concerns requiring the Minister’s intervention, including delays in road works, the stalled construction of the Jinja District headquarters, limited promotion opportunities for civil servants, alleged corruption in the District Service Commission, and the alleged mismanagement of district assets, including government vehicles.
After hearing submissions from both the political and technical leadership, Hon. Balaam directed the Chief Administrative Officer, Ms. Lilian Nakamatte, to step aside and hand over office to the Deputy Chief Administrative Officer to allow investigations by the State House Anti-Corruption Unit and the Inspector General of Government (IGG) to proceed.
The Minister also cautioned councillors against spreading misinformation and urged all leaders to work together in the interest of the people of Jinja. He emphasized that recruitment and promotion within the district should be based on merit rather than favoritism.
“The time for campaigns has ended. The District Chairperson is here to serve everyone, regardless of their political affiliation,” Hon. Balaam said.
To address concerns over delayed road works, the Minister pledged to engage the central government to secure additional road equipment for Jinja District, saying the move would help accelerate road infrastructure projects and improve service delivery to residents.
