As new leaders in Apac District recently took their oaths of office, the overwhelming message was clear: it’s time to wage a serious war against corruption and demand greater responsibility from public servants. Political and administrative figures alike warned that bribery and misuse of power continue to cripple the delivery of essential services to the people.
Many speakers highlighted that corruption in Uganda is not just a small problem; it’s a deeply rooted issue that has become an accepted part of government operations. It was argued that past efforts to fight corruption have been too selective and often ineffective, making the vice incredibly difficult to eliminate, as many have grown up within systems that benefit from it.
One Member of Parliament, drawing on his experience, strongly advocated for a modernized, computerized system for hiring public workers. He believes this approach, similar to those used in other countries, would put an end to bribery and favoritism, which are rampant in manual recruitment processes.
Another influential voice, the Woman Member of Parliament for Apac District, urged the new leadership to make service delivery, transparent operations, and unity their top priorities. She emphasized the importance of hiring local residents for district jobs and awarding contracts to local businesses. This, she argued, would significantly boost the local economy. She also stressed the critical need for the council to actively monitor officials, preventing the abuse of power and the wasteful spending of public money, including the misuse of government vehicles.
The ceremony officially welcomed Ambrose Agech as the new head of the Apac District local government. The Chief Administrative Officer pledged full support to the new leadership, signaling a united front against the challenges ahead. The hope is that this new era will bring about meaningful change, better services, and a stronger, more honest government for the people of Apac.