By Waddell Steven Ainganiza
Newly sworn-in Local Council One (LC1) and Local Council Two (LC2) leaders in Fort Portal Tourism City’s North Division have raised concern over what they describe as inadequate government support, but pledged to remain committed to serving their communities.
The leaders, who took oath at the North Division headquarters in Karambi, said the Shs10,000 monthly allowance they receive does not reflect the growing responsibilities placed on grassroots leaders.
Hadijah Amanyire, LC1 Chairperson for Kidukuru Cell, said local council leaders continue to serve their communities despite limited financial support. She said their repeated attempts to have their concerns presented to higher authorities, including the President, had yielded little response.
Judith Balinda, LC2 Chairperson for Gweri Ward, acknowledged the financial challenges but said the leaders would continue working with division authorities to improve service delivery.
Resident City Commissioner Nasike Asumin urged the newly sworn-in leaders to approach their responsibilities with discipline and professionalism. She cautioned them against handling land disputes, advising them to refer such matters to the relevant authorities.
Nasike also challenged the leaders to mobilise residents to make better use of health and education facilities while remaining vigilant against fraudulent land transactions and misuse of official stamps, particularly in land deals and bank loan applications.
North Division Mayor Kiiza Joseph Mashuhuko said the division would provide induction training for LC1 leaders to strengthen their capacity to serve residents. He urged them to prioritise community mobilisation, security and local development.
Fort Portal City NRM Chairperson Clare Kasande called on the leaders to make accountability a priority. She warned against misuse of money collected through village fines and land transactions, saying such resources should benefit communities through development projects.
Kasande further urged the leaders to monitor government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model and Emyoga, which are intended to increase household incomes.
Deputy Resident City Commissioner for North Division Henry Kitambula cautioned leaders against treating local councils as personal territories. He urged them to work closely with council committees and residents to address community challenges and improve service delivery.