By Sylvia K
Kabarole district is set to host its 9th annual budget leaders’ accountability conference on June 21st, 2024. However, the event faces a boycott from local council (LC) chairpersons who seem to be dissatisfied with lack of financial transparency in their respective sub-counties.
According to Ainganiza Stephen Waddell, the district information officer, the conference is an opportunity for the community to receive updates on the district’s financial performance for the outgoing fiscal year, typically targeting attendence of leaders at all levels, including LC3, LC2, and LC1 chairpersons, as well as members of parliament and representatives from local NGOs.
LC Chairpersons Cite Lack of Accountability
Despite the district’s efforts to convene the conference, the LC3 chairpersons under the Kabarole District Local Council Chairperson Association have vowed to boycott the event. Agaba Abdala, the association’s chairperson, stated that they cannot attend the conference when they have not received proper accountability from sub-county chiefs on how funds have previously been utilized.
Son Katwesigye, the LC3 chairperson for Kasenda sub-county, echoed similar sentiments, revealing that his sub-county has gained little in terms of services from the district in the previous financial year. As a result, he sees no reason to participate in the upcoming accountability conference.
District Leadership Unavailable for Comment
Attempts to reach out to the district chairperson, Richard Rwabuhinga, for comment on the allegations were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to repeated calls.
Kabarole district, is comprised of 15 sub-counties and town councils, and the boycott by the LC chairpersons raises concerns about the level of transparency and accountability within the local government system.
