Lira City, Uganda: Outgoing LC3 chairpersons from the Lango sub-region have intensified demands for improved welfare, calling on government to introduce retirement packages, allow them to retain official motorcycles, and increase their monthly salaries to at least Shs1 million.
The leaders made the appeal during a meeting in Lira City, arguing that the current facilitation of about Shs300,000 is too low compared to the responsibilities they shoulder at the grassroots.
Julius Alele, the outgoing LC3 Chairperson of Bala Sub County in Kole District, said many leaders leave office in financial distress despite years of service to their communities.
“We commit our time and energy to serving communities, but when our term ends, there is nothing to show for it,” Alele said, urging government to introduce a retirement package to protect former leaders from slipping into poverty.
He added that the current salary is inadequate and does not reflect the demands of the role. According to him, increasing it to at least Shs1 million would enable leaders to work more effectively and with dignity.
Alex Ogota, Chairperson of Ibuje Sub County in Apac District, said LC3 leaders are at the frontline of service delivery but operate under difficult conditions.
“We are the closest leaders to the people. Every problem in the community is brought to us, yet our facilitation is inadequate,” Ogota said, noting that improving welfare would directly enhance performance and motivation among leaders.
He warned that without reliable and realistic support, service delivery at the grassroots risks being compromised.
Tom Arach, the former LC3 Chairperson of Aber Sub County in Oyam District, emphasised the importance of allowing outgoing leaders to retain official motorcycles, describing them as essential tools for community engagement.
“These motorcycles help us reach remote communities with poor roads. Even after leaving office, many of us remain active in community work,” Arach said, adding that retaining them would ease mobility and sustain local initiatives.
Patrick Onyum Okwang, Chairperson of Atongtidi Sub County in Kwania District, said improving welfare for LC3 leaders is critical to strengthening local governance structures.
“LC3 chairpersons are the backbone of service delivery. We handle security, development, and mobilisation. If our welfare is improved, the entire system becomes more effective,” he said.
He added that better facilitation would also enhance accountability, as leaders would be better positioned to deliver results without financial strain.
The leaders jointly warned that continued neglect of their welfare could discourage capable individuals from seeking leadership positions at the local level.
“We are not asking for luxuries,” Alele said. “We are asking for fair treatment that reflects the work we do for our communities.”
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