Katakwi, Uganda: The Vice President of Uganda, H.E. Maj (Rtd) Jessica Rose Epel Alupo, has commended Local Council I (LCI) chairpersons across the country for their dedication and commitment to community service, despite receiving little financial support from the government.
Alupo, who also serves as the Woman Member of Parliament for Katakwi District, made the remarks on Friday, November 7, 2025, while attending the burial of the late Agnes Juru, the LCI Chairperson of Central Ward, Okeriso Village, Angodigod Sub-county, Toroma County, Katakwi District.
Addressing mourners, Alupo praised the deceased for her exemplary service and urged LCI leaders across the country to emulate her humility, integrity, and work ethic.
“LC1s are the true engine of government service delivery,” Alupo said. “They mobilize communities, resolve conflicts, and ensure that government programs reach the grassroots. We must appreciate their tireless work even when their financial facilitation remains small.”
She noted that LCIs remain the government’s first point of contact with citizens and play a critical role in implementing programs such as Parish Development Model (PDM), Emyooga, Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP), and Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP).
“As leaders, let’s continue informing our communities about government programs so that people understand and benefit from what government is doing for them,” Alupo emphasized.
Calls for Visionary and People-Centred Leadership
The Vice President also used the platform to call on the people of Teso Sub-region and Uganda at large to vote for visionary and development-oriented leaders in the forthcoming 2026 general elections.
“We need leaders who can deliver our people from poverty, not those motivated by personal interests,” she said. “Let us support leaders who follow the example of the late Agnes Juru, who served her people selflessly.”
Alupo underscored teamwork, transparency, and people-centred engagement as the foundation for effective governance and sustainable development. “This is not just about winning elections,” she added. “It’s about restoring dignity, accountability, and development in our communities.”
The Vice President reaffirmed government’s commitment to ongoing service delivery and infrastructure projects in Toroma County, including the construction of new roads, a technical school, and a Health Centre IV.
She reiterated her pledge to focus on poverty eradication and household economic empowerment, especially through programs targeting women and youth.
In a humanitarian gesture, the Vice President also offered to take over the education of the two sons of the late Agnes Juru. “Her commitment to community service will not go unnoticed. As a mother and leader, I will ensure her children continue their education,” she said.
Leaders Praise the Deceased
Several leaders attended the burial and paid tribute to the late LCI Chairperson.
Deputy RDC Katakwi, Vincent Xavier Okwi, described the deceased as “a hardworking and disciplined leader who served with integrity.” He also urged political aspirants in the district to conduct peaceful, free, and fair elections ahead of the 2026 polls.
Hon. Angela Akebgo, representing LCV Chairperson Geoffrey Omolo, commended the people of Toroma for supporting development initiatives and called for moral upbringing among children. “Let us raise our children with values and discipline. That is the foundation of a bright future,” Akebgo said.
She revealed that although government provides quarterly road maintenance funds, heavy floods have washed away several roads in Katakwi, complicating transportation.
NRM Leaders Call for Unity and Continuity
NRM District Chairperson Robert Clare Okiror praised the late Juru for her service and called for continued unity within the party. “As the NRM, we are focused on building society and supporting future generations. Let’s continue rallying behind our leaders and strengthening grassroots structures,” Okiror said.
He also appealed to the Vice President’s office to extend support to the deceased’s family.
Meanwhile, LCI Chairperson William Ilokot Dikan of Okeriso Village urged fellow local leaders to emulate Juru’s dedication to service. “She worked tirelessly and served her community with love and humility. That’s the spirit of true leadership,” he said.
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