Pallisa, Uganda: Former Kibale County Member of Parliament Richard Oseku Oriebo has urged newly elected and appointed leaders to abandon divisive political rhetoric and focus on delivering services that improve the lives of the people who entrusted them with leadership.
Oseku made the remarks during the burial of retired Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) officer Staff Sergeant Stephen Okwana, 59, at Okudelia Village in Pallisa Town Council on Tuesday.
Addressing mourners, the former legislator criticized politicians who continue to engage in what he described as unconstructive political attacks and provocative messaging against their opponents even after assuming public office.
He argued that leaders should now prioritize unity, development, and addressing community needs instead of perpetuating political rivalries. “It is regrettable for politicians to continue politicking and speaking ill of others publicly instead of presenting beneficial agendas for the people,” Oseku said.
He specifically questioned the growing use of political slogans aimed at discrediting rivals rather than fostering national cohesion.
“This common political slogan of always saying ‘new curriculum’, ‘new energy’ or ‘fresh blood’ is only intended to annoy others but will not promote meaningful unity among our people,” he added.
Oseku’s remarks come at a time when political temperatures remain high in several parts of the country following recent electoral contests and leadership transitions.
Former Agule County legislator David Ochwa echoed similar sentiments, urging leaders to concentrate on fulfilling campaign promises and meeting the expectations of voters.
Ochwa noted that many elected officials often become distracted by political battles at the expense of addressing pressing community challenges. “Leaders should focus on delivering to the expectations of the people who voted for them rather than getting diverted by unnecessary political distractions,” he said.
He also appealed to citizens to exercise patience and avoid placing unrealistic pressure on leaders as they settle into office and begin implementing their development agendas.
The burial attracted political leaders, government officials, UPDF representatives, family members and hundreds of mourners who gathered to pay tribute to the late Okwana.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Lawrence Ojinga, a brother to the deceased, expressed gratitude to the mourners for the overwhelming support shown during their time of grief. “The large number of people who have come here today demonstrates the love and respect people had for our brother and our family. This support means a lot to us,” Ojinga said.
Representing the UPDF, Major Gerald Bigirwa from the Human Resource Directorate praised President Yoweri Museveni for ensuring equal treatment of serving and retired military personnel during burial arrangements.
Bigirwa said the UPDF does not discriminate among its officers when honoring them in death. “Whether one served as a private or held a higher rank, the UPDF ensures they are accorded dignity and respect during burial. The only differences may be in military protocol such as salutes,” he explained.
He also encouraged the family to follow up on the deceased’s pension benefits, noting that Okwana had served the country faithfully and was entitled to benefits due to him.
Soroti City Resident City Commissioner John Michael Okurut, who represented the government, commended Ugandans for supporting President Museveni and highlighted government efforts to improve the welfare of security personnel.
He said the dignified treatment accorded to fallen soldiers serves as motivation for younger generations considering careers in national service.
Okurut also used the occasion to call for responsible political engagement and peaceful coexistence among citizens. “We should embrace constructive politics that unite people instead of engaging in actions that divide communities and undermine national development,” he said.
The RCC further urged parents to continue prioritizing education for their children, saying education remains one of the most effective pathways to socio-economic transformation.
At the same time, he reminded residents to remain vigilant and adhere to health guidelines amid concerns over the Ebola outbreak.
The late Staff Sergeant Stephen Okwana was remembered as a disciplined officer and respected community member whose service to the country and dedication to his family earned him admiration from colleagues and residents alike.
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