local government 26 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Bushenyi District Service Commission Restored After Nine-Month Halt
Bushenyi District has finally constituted a new District Service Commission, ending a nine-month operational vacuum that had stalled recruitment and hampered service delivery. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/bushenyi-gets-district-service-commission-after-nine-month-vacuum-5571568
Bushenyi District is set to resume crucial human resource functions following the formation of a new District Service Commission. The district had been operating without this vital body for the past nine months, leading to significant disruptions in recruitment processes and overall service delivery.
The district council has unanimously approved James Mujurizi as a member of the commission. His nomination follows a previous deferral by the Public Service Commission of another nominee, highlighting the challenges in establishing the new body.
LCV Chairman Prosper Twebaze confirmed the appointment, expressing optimism that the Public Service Commission will grant final clearance for the new commission to commence its duties. He noted that Mr. Mujurizi, a long-serving member of the district local government with over two decades of experience and a strong record, is a suitable candidate.
The absence of a functional commission had a direct impact on the recruitment of essential personnel, including teachers, health workers, administrators, and parish chiefs, particularly as many district employees reached retirement age. This situation drew the attention of civil society, with the Western Ankole Civil Society Forum (WACSOF) petitioning relevant authorities over alleged irregularities in the previous appointment process.
Residents have voiced concerns, noting that such administrative crises are not unprecedented in Bushenyi, with a similar situation occurring in 2017. The prolonged absence of the commission has implications for staff recruitment and promotions, ultimately affecting the quality and availability of public services.
District leaders have been urged to ensure independent decision-making, free from political interference, to prevent future delays. Meanwhile, the district awaits the final approval from the Public Service Commission before the new commission can officially begin its work. Chairman Twebaze also issued a warning against bribery, urging applicants to adhere to official recruitment channels.