The newly elected District Chairperson and Councillors were officially sworn into office in a colorful ceremony held at the district headquarters, marking the beginning of a new five-year leadership term running from 2026 to 2031.

 The District Chairperson, Hon Gilbert Rubaihayo, takes oath

The ceremony brought together government officials, religious leaders, civil servants, political leaders, development partners, and members of the public who gathered to witness the formal assumption of office by the district’s political leadership.

Earlier, during the inaugural council sitting, councillors elected Hon Ronald Karamagi as the District Speaker, who was subsequently sworn into office and presided over the proceedings, and Hon Hamida Kahunde as Deputy Speaker.

In his remarks after being voted into office, the District Speaker thanked councillors for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the council and pledged to uphold fairness, unity, and professionalism during council deliberations.

“I thank all honourable councillors for the confidence you have placed in me. I commit myself to serving this council with impartiality, respect for procedure, and dedication to the people of this district. Let us work together in unity to deliver effective oversight and meaningful development for our communities,” the Speaker said.

The Speaker further urged councillors to maintain decorum during council sessions and prioritize the interests of the wananchi above personal or political differences.

Administering the oath of office, the Chief Magistrate, Her Worship Nimungu Gloria Ociba, called upon the leaders to uphold the Constitution of Uganda, serve with integrity, and prioritize the welfare of the people throughout their term in office.

In his inaugural address after takingoath, the District Chairperson, Hon Gilbert Rubaihayo, pledged to promote transparency, accountability, and improved service delivery across all sectors, including health, education, roads, agriculture, and water services. He emphasized the need for unity among leaders regardless of political affiliation in order to accelerate socio-economic transformation within the district.

“Our focus during this term will be on strengthening service delivery, improving household incomes, supporting government development programs, continuity of our fight against all forms of corruption, and ensuring that every citizen benefits from the resources of the district,” the Chairperson said.

The Chairperson commended district staff for their dedication and commitment to public service, noting that their hard work has contributed greatly to the trust and support the district leadership continues to receive from the people.

He also appreciated the collaboration between the district and key government institutions, including the Judiciary, Police, Prisons, RDC’s office, and DISO’s office, acknowledging their important oversight and governance roles in maintaining stability and service delivery.

The Chairperson further called upon councillors and technical staff to work together harmoniously in addressing challenges affecting communities and ensuring effective implementation of district programs and projects.

A major highlight of the ceremony was the nomination of members to serve on the District Executive Committee. The proposed team includedHon. Atuhaire Grace – Vice Chairperson, Hon. Atuhairwe Rusoke Giscard – Secretary for Works, Finance and Administration, Hon. Jane Ahaisibwe – Secretary for Community Based Services, and Hon. Kayondo Komwiswa – Secretary for Production, Health and Education, who were all duly approved by council.

Hon. Grace Atuheire, The Vice Chairperson takes oath of office

The Chairperson also paid tribute to the outgoing District Executive Committee for its exemplary performance and pledged continued cooperation with the council leadership.

Speaking during the ceremony, the Chief Administrative Officer, Mr. Malik Mahabba congratulated the newly sworn-in leaders upon earning the trust of the electorate and urged them to exercise responsible leadership characterized by teamwork, discipline, and commitment to public service.

Several councillors who took oath expressed readiness to represent the interests of their respective constituencies and pledged to work closely with communities to address local priorities and development concerns.

Religious leaders present at the event called upon the leaders to serve selflessly, fight corruption, and remain accessible to the people throughout their tenure.

 The swearing-in ceremony officially ushered in the new district council that will steer the district’s governance and development agenda for the next five years. The event concluded with prayers, congratulatory messages, and a renewed call for collective responsibility in advancing the district’s growth and transformation.