Katumba tasks Acholi leaders on accountability

2 October 2026, 12:25 pm

By Ekel Bonny Daniel

Public Service Minister Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala has challenged local government leaders in the Acholi Sub-region to strengthen supervision and accountability before demanding additional staff and resources from the government.

Katumba made the remarks today in Gulu City during an engagement with Chief Administrative Officers, LC5 chairpersons, Resident District Commissioners (RDCs), District Service Commission members and other accounting officers from the sub-region.

He said local governments must demonstrate the need for additional staff by assessing how existing personnel are being utilized, particularly in schools and health facilities.

He also urged District Service Commission members to strengthen transparency in recruitment and to ensure that allegations of corruption are investigated on the basis of evidence.

The call comes as local leaders raised several challenges affecting service delivery, including staffing gaps, delayed recruitment, acting appointments, remuneration and the functioning of District Service Commissions.

Agago District LC5 Chairperson Wilson-Otto told the meeting that local governments continue to face challenges that affect their ability to deliver services effectively. He called for greater attention to the conditions under which local leaders and public servants operate.

Other local government leaders also raised concerns over staffing structures, remuneration of political leaders and the resources available to support local administration.

Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Public Service Catherine Bitarakwate Musingwiire said some of the concerns require evidence-based submissions from local governments before government can make informed decisions.

She said requests for recruitment and changes in staffing structures should clearly demonstrate the service delivery gap, expected outputs and financial implications.