Minakulu subcounty forced to operate under a tree over unpaid rent

2 April 2025, 3:00 pm

By Eman Yonah Oruk

Minakulu subcounty is currently operating under a tree after failing to clear rent arrears exceeding 7.2 million shillings owed to their landlord.

Simon Ayell, the LC3 Chairperson of Minakulu, confirmed this development during an interview at Congo trading centre.

He stated that rent payments had been progressing well but expressed surprise upon discovering that arrears of over 7 million shillings remained unpaid.

Ayell emphasised that the responsibility for settling the debt lies with the executive and subcounty leadership.

Ayell also highlighted the high level of absenteeism among staff at Minakulu subcounty, particularly between the SAS and the sub-accountant.

Francis Omara, Speaker of Minakulu, questioned the decision to lock the offices, despite Minakulu sub county being the leading subcounty in terms of local revenue collection.

Regarding absenteeism, Omara confirmed the issue and announced an emergency council meeting scheduled for Thursday to address the absence of the SAS and sub county accountant.

Denis Odoc, Secretary to LC1 of Ebur village, expressed concern over the closure of the subcounty office, stating that it has caused significant challenges for government programmes such as PDM and other projects.

Alex Alobo, Chairperson of the Education Committee at Minakulu subcounty, expressed frustration over the office closure, noting that it has disrupted efforts to monitor and deploy task forces to ensure children attend school on school days.

When approached for comment, Francis Eyoko, assistant supervisor of Minakulu sub county, declined to speak to the press, stating that only the LC3 Chairperson is authorised to do so.

According to reports obtained by our reporter, an aspiring candidate for Oyam South Member of Parliament, is responsible for locking the offices of Minakulu subcounty due to unpaid rent arrears exceeding 7.2 million shillings since February 2025.