Gulu City mayor warns restocking beneficiaries against misusing funds on alcohol

15 July 2026, 11:56 am

By Tracy Anirwoth

Gulu City Mayor Julius Labeja has strongly urged beneficiaries of the government’s cattle restocking program to invest their funds strictly in livestock rather than alcohol or other non-essential items. The mayor emphasized that the money is intended to uplift household livelihoods and must be used for its designated purpose.

Addressing the public on 89.5 Speak FM Tuesday morning 14 July 2026, Mayor Labeja clarified that the program registered 640 households to receive the restocking funds of which 597 have so far received the money and only 43 households pending payment. He pointed out a common misconception, stressing that the funds are allocated per household rather than to individuals.

He warned that joint operations will be conducted alongside the Office of the Resident City Commissioner (RCC) to monitor progress. Those found to have diverted the funds will face arrest.

However, the program has faced some public backlash.  Martin, a resident of Laroo, claimed there was widespread favoritism and segregation during the registration exercise for the restocking exercise.

Another person who, identified as Experts from Pabo, alleged that some local Local Council 1 (LC1) chairpersons are diverting the restocking funds to mobilize political campaigns.

In response to these allegations, Mayor Labeja condemned the corrupt leaders and urged affected communities to vote out any LC1 chairpersons found using development funds for political campaigns.