NICHOLAS A
Residents in Buhunga Sub County, Rukungiri District, have expressed concern over leaders who fail to return to their communities after being elected, leaving voters to grapple with persistent development challenges.
Speaking during a political rally for Rukungiri Woman MP NRM flag bearer Hon. Mary Paula Kebirungi Turyahikayo and District Chairperson NRM flag bearer Andrewson Katebire Charles, Kyarisiima Rose, the Chairperson of Rweega Village in Bwanda Parish, said residents have repeatedly been disappointed by leaders who do not fulfill their promises.
Kyarisiima noted the absence of electricity and clean water in the area, saying the community has been left behind, making development difficult to attract. She urged incoming leaders to prioritize transparency and maintain close contact with communities to understand and address their challenges.
Peace Charleson, another resident, attributed the underdevelopment of some parts of Rujumbura to voters who accept money during elections, only to end up electing incompetent leaders. He cautioned residents against prioritizing pre-election handouts over long-term development needs such as electricity, water, education, health services, and roads.
Kyatusiimire Allen Kazoora, the LC5 Lady Councillor flag bearer for Buhunga Sub County, praised Hon. Mary Paula and Chairman Katebire for their pro-development stance. She pledged to work with them to improve roads, education, health services, and other essential sectors. She emphasized the importance of voting NRM candidates, saying they have the capacity to lobby for development.
Responding to concerns about leaders not returning after elections, Hon. Mary Paula Kebirungi said that after every election, she uses her first salary to go back to communities to thank voters, identify challenges, and gather suggestions. She assured residents of Buhunga that Rukungiri District would experience significant change if she is elected to work alongside Mr. Katebire as LC5 Chairperson.
She described Katebire as a transparent, development-oriented, and anti-corruption leader, adding that she is committed to addressing issues hindering development since she has the capacity to lobby. Hon. Mary Paula pledged to support women’s associations, the youth, PWDs, and the elderly (Bamukaaka), saying these are initiatives she successfully championed in Rubabo. She also expressed her dedication to promoting talent development by empowering skilled individuals.
Former LC5 Chairperson Andrewson Katebire Charles vowed to the people of Buhunga that, if elected, he will intensify the fight against corruption and advocate for transparency. He highlighted achievements from his previous term, including saving Bwanga Stock Farm from being sold, stopping deforestation in Imaramagambo, and blocking attempts to divert COVID-19 relief food.
He assured residents that he would continue to protect the district from individuals with selfish interests.
