Iganga, Uganda: Newly sworn-in Muhando Shabiru Isabirye has pledged to promote unity, restore trust in leadership and strengthen service delivery in Iganga District as he begins his five-year term in office.
Isabirye, who was elected on the National Unity Platform (NUP) ticket, made the remarks on Thursday during his swearing-in ceremony held at the district headquarters, where he officially succeeded former district chairperson Gabula Ezera after defeating him in the recent elections.
“What seemed impossible is possible before God. I am here to bring unity to the district in a way that has never happened before,” Isabirye said. “I want to restore systems where trust is the foundation of our service,” he added.
The ceremony attracted several political and community leaders, including former Vice President Specioza Wandira Kazibwe, Iganga NRM Chairperson Walubi Abubakar and Hamidu Kimaka.
Warns Underperforming Officials
In his inaugural remarks, Isabirye also issued a warning to underperforming cabinet members and district officials, saying his administration would prioritize merit, accountability and performance regardless of political affiliation.
“In my leadership, I move on merit. That’s why my cabinet includes both NUP and NRM members. We are aiming for unity,” he said. “I am closely monitoring performance and will make changes where necessary,” he warned.
The new chairperson defended his decision to appoint Mukacha Halid, a workers’ representative aligned to the ruling National Resistance Movement (NRM), as vice chairperson despite resistance from some NUP supporters.
Isabirye said the appointment was intended to foster cooperation beyond political divisions and strengthen unity within the district leadership.
Mukacha previously served as vice chairperson under the outgoing administration of Gabula Ezera.
Speaker, Deputy Speaker Retain Seats
Following the swearing-in, councillors elected Mpungu Bernard as district speaker and Ruth Nakayima Nakidoido as deputy speaker, with both securing second consecutive terms in office.
Speaker Mpungu pledged to preside over a peaceful and professional council focused on improving service delivery.
“We will ensure the council operates to standard. I promise unity as we serve our people peacefully,” Mpungu said. “Iganga is bigger than all of us,” he added.
CAO Urges Leaders to Focus on Service Delivery
Iganga District Chief Administrative Officer Moses Bukenya Sseguya urged the new leadership to remain committed to unity and avoid turning district operations into partisan political battles.
He also cautioned councillors against engaging in illegal deals and abuse of office, warning that such conduct undermines development and public trust.
Bukenya revealed that the district plans to organize an induction programme to orient councillors on their responsibilities, lawful conduct and governance procedures.
The swearing-in marks the beginning of a new political administration in Iganga District as leaders prepare to implement district programmes focused on infrastructure, health, education and household income improvement over the next five years.
If you would like your article/opinion to be published on Uganda’s most authoritative news platform, send your submission on: [email protected]. You can also follow DailyExpress on WhatsApp and on Twitter (X) for realtime updates.
