Tensions within Rukiga District’s leadership have resulted in the dismissal of Deputy Chairman Samuel Niwandinda, following his public criticism of the district’s administration. The decision, announced by District Chairman Robert Mbabazi Kakwerere, comes after Niwandinda voiced concerns over the district’s service delivery.
On February 5th, Chairman Kakwerere issued a formal letter relieving Niwandinda of his duties, citing insubordination and breach of his oath of allegiance.
The dismissal notice, which was forwarded to the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), includes a directive to recover all government assets previously in Niwandinda’s possession. The Chairman justified the action under Section 20(a) of the Local Governments Act.
Niwandinda had expressed his dissatisfaction in January, publicly questioning the administration’s approach to retaining skilled workers. He pointed out a growing trend of personnel leaving for other local governments, making Rukiga District one of the region’s highest in employee turnover.
Niwandinda also raised concerns about the effectiveness of key district bodies, such as the District Service Commission and the Public Accounts Committee, noting that his attempts to engage with the Chairman on these issues had been unfruitful.
The dismissal letter has been forwarded to Rukiga District Speaker Oscar Akampurira and Local Government Minister Raphael Magyezi.
Chairman Kakwerere has stated that the Vice Chairperson’s duties will be temporarily reassigned to another Executive member, with a permanent replacement to be chosen at the next council meeting.
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