Newly sworn-in Local Council 1 chairpersons and councillors in Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, have been urged to open bank accounts to promote transparency and accountability in management of public funds.
The call was made by Mr Henry Ssekajja, the Division Town Clerk of Njeru Municipality, during the swearing-in ceremony for village chairpersons in Njeru Division on Tuesday.
Ssekajja said his office would no longer transact or distribute funds in physical cash or through mobile money, but would instead channel payments through bank accounts to strengthen accountability.
"I have been challenged on how leaders can receive their money. This time, you must open bank accounts to receive the funds instead of using mobile money, to avoid complaints over non-payment," Ssekajja said.
He warned the newly elected leaders and their executive committees against misusing official stamps or imposing conditions on residents seeking recommendation letters and other services.
Ssekajja further cautioned LCI leaders against handling serious criminal and land-related cases, including murder and defilement, which should be referred to relevant authorities.
However, he said local leaders have an important role in understanding residents and families within their communities, including information about property ownership.
He challenged leaders to take an active role in resolving minor disputes instead of referring every matter to police.
"We have a problem with some LCIs and their committees failing to resolve simple community cases, such as chicken theft, and instead referring them to the police. You must play your role as village leaders," Ssekajja said.
Mr Chris Richard Kakwesi, the Assistant Resident District Commissioner of Njeru Municipality, urged the newly elected leaders to serve all residents regardless of political affiliation.
"You were elected because of your leadership ability, not your party. Do not abuse your position by engaging in corruption that could put you on the wrong side of the law," Kakwesi said.
During the ceremony, Kakwesi asked two newly elected chairpersons from opposition backgrounds to consider joining the NRM.
The two are Mr Robert Bogere Kiyaya (NUP), LCI chairperson of Bukaya West, and Mr Ernest Ssenyondo, an independent chairperson of Bukaya East.
One posed with an NRM sign and said they would consider joining with time. He also urged leaders to mobilise residents to participate in government programmes such as Emyooga and Parish Development Model to improve household incomes.
Meanwhile, Ssenyondo urged government to increase the Shs10,000 monthly allowance, saying it is insufficient. Kiyaya, the newly elected chairperson of Bukaya West, said he would not tolerate idleness among residents, particularly the youth.
He said although residents elected him, he would ensure those who violate the law are held accountable. Mr Charles Agotre, LCI chairperson of UEB Quarters, said he would prioritise youth, women and elderly.
"My village has elderly people who qualify but are not receiving the money, yet even a small amount could help them buy basic necessities such as sugar," Agotre said.
