The recently elected leader of Pallisa District, Honorable Okiria Ben, is calling for an immediate end to the hollow rumors and manufactured controversies regarding his new executive team. Following his official swearing-in ceremony presided over by Chief Magistrate Lydia Kabenda, Okiria has taken a firm stand against critics who claim he favored specific tribes when selecting his leadership committee. He insists that these allegations are not only false but are a dangerous attempt to distract the public from the urgent work of development.
During a recent press briefing, the LC5 Chairperson expressed his disappointment that even educated individuals are participating in spreading the narrative that his cabinet lacks tribal balance. He clarified that his selections were based on geography, merit, and legal procedure, ensuring that all four counties within Pallisa are represented. To prove his point, Okiria highlighted the diversity of his team, which includes Didi Opio, a Mugwere serving as Secretary for Finance; Fildah Rose Oloit, an Acholi serving as Vice Chairperson; and other key members like William Emuron and Doreen Atim. These appointments were not made in secret but were debated and approved by the district council through a transparent legal process.
Okiria emphasized a powerful truth about the community he leads: the people of Pallisa have lived, worked, and intermarried for generations. He noted that in almost every village, neighbors of different tribal backgrounds live side by side in harmony. He argued that it is illogical to divide the district along ethnic lines when the challenges they face are universal. In his view, there is no such thing as tribal poverty or tribal services. When a road is built or a school is improved, every citizen benefits regardless of their heritage.
With only four executive positions available for a pool of forty-two councillors, Okiria explained that it is mathematically impossible for every single group to hold a seat. However, his focus remains on a comprehensive agenda that targets better roads, improved education, higher household incomes, and environmental protection. He believes that his administration should be measured by the quality of services delivered to the doorsteps of the people, rather than the tribal origins of his staff.
The District Speaker, Jeremiah Ariong, has also come out in strong support of the Chairperson. Ariong noted that the law gives the Chairperson the mandate to choose a team he can trust to execute his vision. He reminded the public that during the campaign, Okiria promised a better Pallisa for all residents, not special favors for specific councillors. Ariong warned that focusing on tribalism is a regressive step that will only delay the progress the district desperately needs.
The community is already seeing the benefits of this inclusive approach. Residents like Annet Asio have praised the Chairperson for his commitment to gender equality, noting that having two women in high-ranking executive roles is a significant win for the district. For many in Pallisa, the message is clear: the time for political games is over, and the time for unity and hard work has begun. Okiria Ben is ready to lead, and he is asking the people to look past their differences and join him in building a more prosperous future.