72 Soroti City Leaders Sworn In, Urged to Reject Corruption

A total of 72 local leaders in Soroti City West have officially taken their oaths, marking a new chapter in local governance. The group includes 60 LC1 chairpersons and 12 LC2 chairpersons representing various wards.

During the swearing-in ceremony, Deputy Resident City Commissioner James Kyomya strongly warned the newly installed leaders against engaging in corruption and any form of criminality. He stressed that their primary duty is to serve their constituents with integrity and accountability, urging them to remain vigilant and actively participate in government programs.

“We want to ensure that you serve your communities diligently, shun corruption, be vigilant and participate in implementation of government programs,” Kyomya stated. He further warned that any leader found involved in illicit activities would face arrest and prosecution, emphasizing a zero-tolerance policy for criminality.

Kyomya also highlighted the need for proper administrative tools, requesting that village leaders be provided with individual stamps to ensure efficient service delivery. He also outlined plans to convene meetings with leaders of Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (Saccos) to address challenges hindering the Parish Development Model (PDM), citing misuse of funds as a significant issue.

Soroti City West Division Mayor John Enomu echoed these sentiments, encouraging leaders not to shield wrongdoers, even if they are related. He also reminded them that issuing introductory letters is a free service and warned against demanding payment from residents.

Meanwhile, the Division Police Commander, SP Moses Nabongo, advised leaders to establish village security committees to bolster local security. However, he cautioned them against handling serious criminal cases like murder or human trafficking at the local level, stressing that such matters must be reported to the police for proper investigation and prosecution.

Ms Susan Deborah Aino, LC1 chairperson of Lubiri Cell, pledged to collaborate with residents, identifying insecurity and drug abuse as key challenges in her area. Mr Alex Emuron, LC2 chairperson of Senior Quarters Ward, urged his fellow leaders to uphold transparency and reject corruption in their service.

This swearing-in ceremony and the subsequent warnings underscore the administration’s commitment to good governance and community welfare in Soroti City West.