Kampala, Uganda: The Minister for Local Government, Hon Raphael Magyezi, has called on Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs), Town Clerks, and Municipal Clerks across the country to step up their supervisory roles and ensure stronger service delivery, warning against absenteeism and work stoppages in public institutions.
Speaking at the first quarterly meeting of CAOs, Town and Municipal Clerks organized by the Ministry of Local Government at Imperial Royale Hotel, Magyezi directed officers to keep government workers focused on their duties and not to participate in strikes while their unions continue negotiations with the Ministry of Public Service.
“Our people depend on government services every day. Strikes and absenteeism only punish the ordinary citizens we serve. I appeal to you to keep your workers disciplined and on duty as unions negotiate in good faith with government,” the Minister said.
Magyezi singled out the CAO of Kayunga District, Mr Malik Mahaba, for spearheading a tough stance against absenteeism in the district, saying his approach should be emulated nationwide.
“The fight against absenteeism is a fight for accountability. I commend Kayunga for showing leadership in this matter. All CAOs must adopt the same model to ensure government programs deliver results on the ground,” he added.
Government Projects on Track
The Minister, however, applauded local government leaders for their collaboration in implementing key national projects such as the Local Economic Growth Support Project (LEGS) and the National Oilseed Project (NoSP). He emphasized that these initiatives are central to poverty alleviation, economic growth, and the livelihoods of ordinary Ugandans.
“These projects are not just numbers in a budget; they are the reason we exist as leaders in government. Every Ugandan must feel their impact, whether it is through improved agriculture, better infrastructure, or local economic empowerment,” Magyezi said.
Magyezi also used the platform to congratulate President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni upon his nomination as the National Resistance Movement (NRM) presidential candidate for the 2026 general elections, describing it as a vote of confidence in his leadership.
“The nomination of the President is a renewal of hope. As local government leaders, we must stand ready to implement the vision he continues to chart for this country,” the Minister remarked.
Magyezi urged leaders at all levels of local government to remain united and accountable, stressing that their performance directly influences how citizens view the central government. “The credibility of government rests in your hands. If services fail at local level, the entire system is judged. Let us rise above excuses and deliver with commitment and integrity,” he concluded.
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