Arwotokun village residents hold district accountable for neglected road

4 March 2025, 10:54 am

By Innocent Aloka

On March 3, 2025, the residents of Arwotokun village in Aromi parish, Akwon subcounty, took matters into their own hands by initiating repairs on the district road that connects them to Abalodyang Trading Center and Amolatar Town Council.

Frustrated by ongoing neglect, Eyangu Bangwelo, the Chairperson of the National Resistance Movement (NRM) in Akwon subcounty, openly criticised the district administration for its failure to improve the deteriorating condition of the road.

Despite the allocation of funds from the NRM government, Bangwelo noted that critical areas, particularly the Ojok Okwir swamp in Arwotokun, have been left in disrepair.

 In his remarks, he expressed appreciation for the efforts of local Member of Parliament Olobo Dubai, who previously worked to enhance the road’s condition. However, he stressed the urgent need for the district to prioritise repairs in the swamp area to prevent further isolation of the community.

Sadam Owiny, a councilor representing Akwon subcounty, echoed Bangwelo’s sentiments, highlighting that the dire state of the road has disproportionately affected women and children. He pointed out that the road’s poor condition has made it inaccessible for emergency services, such as ambulances, exacerbating community safety concerns.

Local Council One representative, Mr. Okwir Alex, conveyed the community’s willingness to collaborate with the district. He stated that if funding was needed for the repair of the swampy section, the residents were prepared to contribute in order to restore this vital access route.

Denish Engwedo, a concerned resident, lamented the district’s apparent abandonment of their infrastructure needs. He urged well-wishers and other stakeholders to step in and assist in improving the road conditions, underscoring a collective hope for support beyond local governance.

As the community comes together to mend what has long been neglected, their resolve speaks volumes about the need for accountability and action from local leaders. The residents of Arwotokun village are calling for immediate attention to their plight, hoping that their voices will finally be heard after years of unfulfilled promises.